American Primitives

19th Century Extra-Long Brass Sleigh Bells on Leather Belt: 39 Jingle Bells, Nearly 8 Feet Long A spectacular and highly authentic set of original 19th-century brass sleigh bells, featuring an impressive 39 hand-cast bells mounted on a nearly 8-foot-long leather strap. This exceptional antique offers not only a beautiful historic presence, but also the perfect traditional “Jingle Bells” sound, bright, rich, and unmistakably festive, just as sleigh bells should be. Each bell is solid brass, tightly fastened and fully functional, producing that magical tone that modern reproductions rarely achieve. The leather strap retains its original metal buckle and remains surprisingly supple and pliable for its age. With simple annual conditioning, it should continue to remain strong and flexible for years to come. The strap appears handmade and hand-stitched, and while there are small areas of thread loss consistent with age, the original workmanship was so solid that these minor imperfections do not compromise the structural integrity of the piece. The leather has developed a beautifully worn patina that speaks to more than a century of use, adding depth and authenticity to its appearance. In the 19th century, long straps of sleigh bells like this were affixed to horse harnesses so travelers could be heard approaching through winter snow, helping prevent collisions on narrow rural roads. Over time, this cheerful sound became woven into the imagery of the holiday season and ultimately inspired the classic Christmas carol, “Jingle Bells.” Today, authentic sets like this capture the warmth and romance of Victorian winter travel and embody the nostalgia of an old-fashioned Christmas. Because of its impressive length, this sleigh bell strap lends itself beautifully to holiday decorating. Many collectors enjoy hanging it on a door so it jingles each time someone enters or exits, while others drape it across a mantel for a warm, traditional seasonal moment. It also looks wonderful wrapped around a staircase railing, stretched along a festive tablescape as a conversation piece, or even displayed on a wall as a piece of functional folk art. However it’s arranged, the authentic sound and historic character bring instant Victorian holiday charm to any space. Original 19th-century sleigh bell straps in this size and condition have become increasingly difficult to find, especially with such a full complement of bells still attached. Modern reproductions, while decorative, seldom replicate the deep, resonant sound of genuine antique brass or the rich patina only time and use can create. For lovers of Americana, equestrian history, Victorian Christmas...

Hand-forged dinner triangle, delicate swan head, in the manner of Early Russel Wright designed Iron Works, very reminiscent of the deer andirons.

19th-century American folk art Heart-shaped forged iron pad lock and key, dated 1875 A remarkable 19th-century American heart-shaped forged iron padlock and key is a true testament ...

Colossal Handmade Folk Art Church Birdhouse. Copper and tin roof with distressed wooden painted finish . Use outdoors or display inside as a piece of art

A Primitive Folk Art Spool Shelf. Fantastic patina and surface throughout. A very collectible rustic piece that immediately adds character and charm. This would be perfect for short ...

Another wonderful early corner cupboard. 4 shelves on top and 2 on the bottom. Stunning Patina on this cupboard. 1 small repair. Another true antique piece that came out of my histor...

Wonderful Primitive Pine PA corner cupboard. 12 panels of early wavy glass. The bottom has two-shelf storage. Stunning piece for your farmhouse decor. True antique Primitive pieces t...

9” Open round salmon painted Nantucket Lightship basket with wooden ears and original paint. The nails on the interior bottom indicate this was probably used as a vegetable baske...

Handmade wooden tool caddy featuring distinctive stepped ziggurat details that give it sculptural presence and architectural charm. Originally conceived as a functional carrier, its ...

Late 19th century American handmade burled wood chair Great looking accent chair with beautiful patina and wood grain. Dimensions: 37 in. H x 15....

A wonderful early 20th century hand-woven oak splint gathering basket with a single bent oak handle, a double banded rim, and a lovely wonky shape. Found in Wisconsin.

This antique Adirondack table showcases the artistry of folk craftsmanship. Its twig frame supports a weathered gray tabletop. Impressive Rustic Antique ADIRONDACK TWIG TABLE...

Massive 18th century Dutch kaas made in the Hudson Valley of New York, circa 1790-1810. It is made of walnut and has four shelves and one large draw across ...

Another wonderful early Rustic two-door original blue/gray cupboard with a great amount of storage space. It has four shelves inside. True antique pieces...

Rare painted iron standing floor lamp made to burn oil but converted to electricity. Nice lines and detail with upturned feet, scroll work and finial at top. See measurements below.

Nice, whimsical Folk Art chain whittled from one continuous piece of wood (spruce, in this case). One end features a hook, the other a clasp. The wood h...

This fantastic tin blue paint decorated tole ware water kettle is in amazing as found condition. It has a blue ground with painted flowers on both sides. ...

Early 19th century ladder back child's chair from New England in fantastic condition. This early chair is mortised and square nail construction.

Early 19th century American primitive demilune console table featuring center drawer with brass knob, straight plain foot legs and original finish. ...

Wonderful, whimsical folk art chain whittled from one continuous piece of wood (pine, in this case). One end features what resembles an arrow fletching,...

This is a spectacular primitive corner cupboard. Layers and layers of paint on this piece. Four shelves on top and two on the bottom. Wonderful coloring on this! You don't find these...