Early hatchel (or hetchel) with fabulous ironwork decoration. Made from Southern yellow pine, and shaped in the form of an owl. Note the tufted tips on the ears, the neck ruffles, and the perfectly balanced knots suggesting the owl's eyes. Both the forged iron hanger and the thistle-topped iron decoration feature pricked ornamentation. Three of the quatrefoils remain. The 5.5-inch tines are individually driven through the plank and are banded together with a double row of decorative scalloped edged flat rings that are chisel cut; even the supporting stiles are shaped!
This unique hatchel spans the boundary between form and function ..... domestic necessity folk art! The "Dutchy" emblematic features are consistent with items made in Pennsylvania and other areas to the South settled by European immigrants. Color, patina and condition are all fantastic. Circa 1750-1780.
Dimensions: 38" high x 10 1/2" wide.
Item No. 080196
Price: $2,450.
