Rustic umbrella stand 'Leiden'

Decorative rustic and handmade 'umbrella stand' made of solid wood with a steel chain. According to experts, this is originally an authentic 'Bens / Bensel', also known as a sharpening stone holder. This was once an indispensable tool for farmers and mowers who went into the fields with a scythe: The holder was hung from the mower's belt with a hook, rope, chain, or leather strap. Inside was a sharpening stone to keep the scythe blade sharp, kept wet with water. As machines became more common, these items were often repurposed on farms, commonly as decorative rustic umbrella stands. Dating roughly from 1850-1930, after which mechanisation took over in agriculture. The item matches well with contemporary interior styles such as Wabi-Sabi, Japandi, modern minimalist, industrial, and farmhouse chic. Country of origin: presumably the Netherlands. Height: 48 cm. Width: 25 cm. Depth: 22 cm. This item can be sent by parcel post within EU.