Early Antique Scrub Box Wall Mount from Virginia's Eastern Shore

The expression, "Be still, my Beating Heart" came to mind when I first saw this fantastic Scrub Box boasting a rich deep chestnut hue with ebony undertones that was found on Virginia's Eastern Shore! The form could not be better and the open box can accommodate either Lye Soap, graters and the like, as there is great potential for unique decorating possibilities. Wow!

The tombstone top and curved sides that are similar to a "S" shape or scroll design, really add character to the form. The box has been fashioned to graduate and become slightly larger at the top edge for a little more space and is similar to the canted construction we usually see in carriers. The maker was not a novice and did a wonderful job! Hand ~ fashioned from pine with tiny round nails throughout that have left a dark imprint, over time, on the wood they surround.

Some time ago, there was a wooden scrub bar that was nailed to the middle however this piece seemed to have lost it's way from it's original counterpart at one point. Seven tiny holes in this area substantiate the missing scrub bar and helps to validate this fact. The rectangular area is also a little lighter in color so it is easier to make out the shape of it's original presence. The interesting thing is someone "made~do" with this box anyway and used this area for scrubbing. There are indications of recessed wear in the ridged wood surface that are about 1/4" below the rest of the wood. The wonderful patina is consistent with the overall color of this piece but is darker, leaning toward a pitch black hue. Please see images 5 & 6).

There is appropriate wear reflecting a lighter color on the front box especially in the corners and on the edges as shown in image 2. More wear can also be seen on the side edges as well. There is a horizontal indentation on the protruding curve of the right side. This is 1/4" in length but is the same color as the overall piece. Inside of the box reveals a dry attic finish and it appears the wood had been exposed to water at one point as indicated in image 5 & 7. The back has the most wonderful honey color and a portion of a knot is present on the upper right side as well as the bottom left corner.

Overall in very good condition considering this piece is from the late1800's to turn of the century. The surface is smooth to the touch and the great wear is "Primitively Perfect"! These boxes are getting harder to find as they are very sought ~ after! What a great addition to your homestead and is sure to cast primitive charm sprinkled with interesting decorating attributes!

My little Tara got tired of posing for me and fell fast asleep on my settler's pillows! I think she got an "A", don't you? (See last image) :) Enjoy!

Measurements are, Overall Height 14 1/2" , almost 9" across & 3" deep @ the widest curve point, 3 1/4" deep from the top edge of the box. Inside box measures 2 3/4" Deep and 8" across the open area.