Antique Scandinavian Courtship Folk Art Carved Laundry Wash Board Shelving Stand

An antique Scandinavian Folk Art courtship or engagement gift washboard / shelving stand.

Featuring a highly carved washboard and showcasing symbolic motifs (heart handle, initials, date) related to the courtship tradition where it was presented as a gift. The reverse side is a functional stand with three integrated shelves, designed to allow the decorative board to be proudly displayed as a significant folk art piece and token of commitment when not in use, whilst also providing storage.

An example of a rich folk tradition where the highly carved boards were given as a significant courtship or engagement gift by a suitor to his intended bride. The purpose of this stand was to proudly exhibit this highly symbolic token of commitment and the giver's craftsmanship in the home.

Board: 84 x 24 cm - Depth: 30 cm - Weight: 7.85 kg

In great condition with a lovely patina and some historic woodworm - there is also a slight lean to the piece, depending on what and if you want to use the shelving you may want to alter it (simply raising the two front feet would work)