Exceptionally Early Dated Love Token Mangle Board

Hand Carved and Richly Patinated Oak
With Stylised Heart, Horseshoe and Floral Motifs
Carved with the Inscriptions ”ANNE AGISDATER”

Scandinavia c. 1631

3” high x 29.25” wide x 5” deep

Condition: In fine original condition, benefitting from a rich and well burnished colour and surface, this is the earliest dated example we have handled. complete with traditional motifs from the courtship ritual, of Flowers, Heart and Horseshoe, it was presumably made for Anne Agisdater on the occasion of her wedding. Mangleboards form a significant part of the courtship ritual and betrothal gift culture in Scandinavia, where young met either made or commissioned articles related to the working of cloth for their loved ones.

Ref: 6384

Signed: Initialled ”HIS” and Date ”1631”