Carved Wood Whimsy Chain with Spike and Ball in Cage

Great example of a folk art whimsy chain with a carved spike and ball in cage. Entire piece is carved with a cross hatch pattern. Measures 11.5 inches by 1 inch.

Whimsy Chains and Ball in Cages have been documented since at least the early part of the last century but have probably been produced for centuries. Called "Whimsies" because they are decorative objects with no functional use, these unique pieces can be found in museums around the country from the Smithsonian, to the Brooklyn Museum, to the High Museum.