A 19th c. hanging miniature shelf in old, deep red pigmented varnish over bittersweet over original pewter grey paint.
Constructed from pine wood with butt jail joinery consisting of small iron square shafted nails. The backboard and shelf support are elaborately ornamented and decorated with a scalloped border and pierced with triangular shaped cutouts. 
Design elements such as this are occasionally seen on furniture and accessories in 19th c. rural areas of North Carolina and Virginia.
Remains in excellent as-descended condition with very historic surface characteristics visually present and pleasing. 
North Carolina or Virginia. Ca. 1875. 6 3/4"T.