Lot 280

American Country Painted Pine Possum Belly Dry Sink or Work Table with Galvanized Flour Bins, Late 19th/Early 20th Century

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Lot 280
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American Country Painted Pine Possum Belly Dry Sink or Work Table with Galvanized Flour Bins, Late 19th/Early 20th Century
American Country Painted Pine Possum Belly Dry Sink or Work Table with Galvanized Flour Bins, Late 19th/Early 20th Century
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American Country Painted Pine Possum Belly Dry Sink or Work Table with Galvanized Flour Bins, Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Current Bid: $5

(1 Bid)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

A charming and highly decorative American country painted pine possum belly dry sink or work table, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. Featuring a vibrant later blue painted surface, the rectangular top is supported by stout turned legs and fitted with two shallow upper drawers above two distinctive "possum belly" storage compartments lined with original galvanized metal bins. The right lower compartment retains divided interior storage, while the left offers a larger open bin, reflecting the practical ingenuity of early rural craftsmanship. Possum belly cabinets were a staple of American farmhouse kitchens, serving as multi-purpose workstations for storing flour, grains, vegetables, and kitchen provisions. Their characteristic bowed lower compartments maximized storage capacity while allowing easy access to bulk goods. Surviving examples retaining their galvanized liners are increasingly sought after by collectors of American country furniture for both their authenticity and decorative appeal. The table retains attractive period-style cast brass drawer pulls and exhibits honest wear consistent with generations of use. The bold blue painted finish, combined with the utilitarian galvanized interiors and substantial turned legs, creates a striking balance of rustic character and functional design. Equally suitable as a kitchen island, console, pantry cabinet, or statement piece in a modern farmhouse interior. An appealing example of American vernacular furniture that embodies both the resourcefulness and enduring aesthetic of rural craftsmanship.

  • Literature: For related examples, see: • Hummel, Charles F., With Hammer in Hand: The Dominy Craftsmen of East Hampton, Yale University Press. • Ketchum, William C., The Encyclopedia of Country Furniture. • Schiffer Publishing, American Country Furniture: Projects from the Workshop of David T. Smith.
  • Circa: Circa 1890–1920
  • Condition: Overall good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use. Later blue painted surface exhibiting expected scratches, scuffs, edge wear, and losses. One lower drawer front has a visible split and loss to the upper edge with associated separation. Drawers show typical wear and operate as expected. Galvanized metal-lined possum belly compartments retain age-related oxidation and surface wear. Hardware appears period-appropriate. Structurally sound and presents well.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50