Hanging Hardwood Comb Box w/ Mirror & Inlaid Messenger Flying Bird Decoration
Description: An antique hard wood comb box with inlaid wood decoration. This hanging comb box has a mirror and has inlaid decoration above the mirror showing a bird carrying a letter around its neck. There is the text ALMOST PERSUADED" again inlaid in lighter colored wood below the bird. The wood box is attached to a backboard is also decorated with inlaid letters "S.D.B." on the front. The edges of the piece are all decorated with inlaid wood as the edge of the mirror which is framed with inlay. The back of the piece is dark and shows age oxidation of the wood. The mirror backing is also made of wood and is nailed to the backing. Most of the nails used in constructing the piece have squared heads with the exception of a couple which have round heads and are obviously replacements. The mirror itself lost its silvering with age and is grayish in color. The entire piece is of nail construction. The front of the piece is nicely decorated, is brown in color with lighter colored inlay. The piece just looks great and has a very nice appearance. Please carefully review the photos as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain, but most likely for the early to mid 20thh century.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania, USA.
Size: Box measures ~9 3/4" by ~3" by ~2 7/8" with the back being ~16" at its highest point and ~10 5/8" at its widest point. The piece weighs slightly over two pounds.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked as to the maker.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This a very nice and uncommon piece of Americana worthy of a spot in your collection.
Condition: The piece is in good condition given its age (it is about 100 years old) and utilitarian function. It has some losses to the surface finish with a few chips and dings. The wooden backboard shows signs of age oxidation. The mirror has lost its silvering and is now grayish in color and does not reflect well. The back board has a hole on edge of each side where screws may have been inserted in the past. The piece is also a bit soiled and would benefit from a good cleaning and waxing to bring out its full beauty, but leave that to the discretion of the new owner. The piece appears to be all original and looks great. Please view photos for additional condition information.
