Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Exceptionally Rare Early 18th-Century English Antique Oatcake Toaster / Harnen / Ribbleboard
Exceptionally Rare Early 18th-Century English Antique Oatcake Toaster / Harnen / Ribbleboard
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Is it a tiny throne or a kitchen essential?
Take a look at this 18th-century beauty! At first glance, you might think it’s a child’s settle—a cozy miniature bench for a Georgian-era toddler. But look closer at those vertical spindles!
While it looks like a miniature bench or "settle," its true purpose was culinary.
This is actually a rare 18th-century wooden oat cake dryer (also known as a harnen or ribbleboard). In the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Wales, Ireland, and Northern England, large circular oatcakes were a staple food. After being cooked on a griddle, these cakes were placed on these wooden racks in front of an open hearth to dry and crisp up before being stored.
Why it's not a Settle:
The Slats: The vertical spindles are spaced specifically to allow heat and air from the fire to circulate around the oatcakes.
The Depth: These dryers are typically much shallower than a seat, as they only needed to hold thin cakes upright.
The Placement: These were strictly "down-hearth" items, designed to sit directly in front of the flames.
It’s a stunning piece of "treen" (antique small woodenware) that brings the history of the farmhouse kitchen right into the modern home.
Would you have guessed it was for baking?
Provenance: England. Early 18th-Century.
Material: Oak.
Condition: Please refer to the images. There is surface wear commensurate with age. There are traces of old inactive worm in part. The is on old blacksmith-forged brace repair to the front and side. All joints are sound.
Dimensions:
80cm wide → 31.5in
59cm high → 23.2in
15cm deep → 5.9in
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We are a member of the following 4 Professional Associations:
1. LAPADA (London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association) – LAPADA is the UK’s largest trade association for professional art & antique dealers (representing approximately 500 UK dealer members). All items are backed by our LAPADA guarantee;
2. CINOA –Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art, (or International Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' Associations) is the world association of art & antique dealer associations (representing 5000 dealers from 32 associations in 22 countries);
3. The Norfolk & Suffolk Antique Dealers Association - Representing reputable, high quality antiques dealers based in Norfolk and Suffolk; and
4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
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Please Note: Prices shown exclude customs clearance fees. Where applicable, these charges will be levied directly by your receiving courier, designated importer, or local government authority. These fees vary by destination and are the responsibility of the buyer. For guidance on potential charges, we recommend contacting your local customs office prior to purchase.
