Knife Box? Candle Box? Something Else?

[talesofthesevenseas]

I was recently given some 18th century pieces, and this was with them. I've seen similar wall boxes called candle boxes and knife boxes. This one has a steeper angle than most and no lid. It would not make sense for long tapers, it could hold stacked 4" candles, but why the angle? You could double the capacity without it. A knife box might make sense, storing them blade down, handles up.
It is very sturdy, made with 3/4" boards, held together with square nails and nice patina throughout. Any insite into age and purpose would be great.

[KC]

Definitely not the typical hanging wooden "boxes" that are from that time period (match box, salt box, soap box, etc.) 
I would bet it was for holding some sort of handled item at a slant that would make it easy to grab.  Most likely a custom made. 

NICE!!!!

[talesofthesevenseas]

That might help to explain why I am having so much trouble identifying it!

[KC]

Found a picture of one that is being used for bulbs!!!!  It would keep them separated and prevent them from rotting!  Good idea!

[talesofthesevenseas]

That's interesting! I don't see any evidence of moisture damage this looks like it has had indoor use. A friend/historian on an 18th century forum believes it's a knife box. I saw a few similar but if that's what it is, mine is an extreme example! Here's a side view:

[jacon4]

Call it a "wall" box and be happy. Small wall hung boxes were used for all sorts of stuff in the 19th century, shapes & sizes were as varied as the contents they held.

[talesofthesevenseas]

Works for me! The form and function will work nicely as a knife box in the kitchen, so that I can ditch the modern butcher block knife holder on the counter. Big in up, sharp pointy end down!

[mart]

Works for me too !  Whatever its original use,, its a nice wall hanger !

[KC]

If it was for knives, are there marks from blades being taken in and out? 

I think it's great you are using it!  Fun!!!!

[jacon4]

If it was for knives, are there marks from blades being taken in and out?

Yes, I was thinking that same thing myself, sometimes the box itself can give clues as to its purpose.

[talesofthesevenseas]

It's worn, and the are what might be marks from blade tips in the bottom interior, but not a lot of them, so it is hard to say.