July 4, 1873 Primitive Carved Fork flat paintbrush Up close one can see

Up close one can see (and feel

though I might be inclined to use set it in a proud place and use it as a pedestal for ceramics or sculpture

but even more so like Jim Broadbent

which almost reads as gold

Painting apron 10"x14"

July 4, 1873 Primitive Carved Fork flat paintbrush Up close one can seeThe handwritten text on this sweetly carved wooden fork is a bit hard to read, particularly the year (and my photos don't help; it is somewhat clearer in person), but I'm pretty sure it says 1873. For sure the day is July 4, so Independence was certainly being celebrated as it was made, with the initials EJV and EAG I believe written below. Very humble but full of life. 5 9 16" x 13 16" and in very good condition.