Talk about one of a kind! I am pretty sure this was a handmade piece from the 1930s or 1940s, and thus you will not find another exactly like it! When I saw it in the back room at an Estate Sale, I immediately thought it belonged in an entry way, mud room or even garage to be a reminder of who's in charge of making a good day - "you"! It would also serve well as the spot to place your keys, or other small items that you are always looking for when you try to get out the door!

The frame of the shelf is made of wood with embossed designs on the front of the top plate, as well as the front of the small storage shelf. The sides of the frame are made to resemble bed posts, or the top of a china cabinet from that period. In the center is the embroidered message - "Let a Smile Be Your" Umbrella (a picture, not the words). A few flowers adorned the top of the tapestry piece as well.

There is period hardware and a rudimentary hanging wire on the back. The wood is thinner so that the piece lays flat on the wall when hung, which would make it easy to incorporate into your décor.

The piece is in very nice, vintage condition. It does have dustiness in the corners and crevices that would benefit from a good cleaning. All the original nails are in place and there are no gaps or loose areas. The front storage shelf has a gap in the front edge that I believe was as constructed. The tapestry is a little loose. It could be removed and pulled tighter and reattached if that was your preference. I believe the color of the tapestry has yellowed with age. The embroidery work is well done and there are no snags or missing stitches.

Dimensions:

18" wide at top
14 1/4" length of side pieces
12 1/2" wide at tapestry
2 1/4" deep at bottom shelf