Description: This is a beautiful, handmade, antique fish-shaped needle case. This finely carved needle case is made from walnut wood and is very unusual and rare. The case shows a Pickerel-type fish carved exterior having a long pointed tip nose and mouth. The fish shows recessed eye sockets with relief carved eyes. The body of the fish has crossed hatched accent through out with a tail that is slightly curved. The head can be separated from the body to reveal the hollowed interior where needles would reside. We are selling the piece as found with needles wrapped in a red piece of material inside it. This is a truly rare and unusual old piece that is in very good condition for such an old utilitarian piece made of wood. Please carefully review the photos as they are part and parcel of our description.  

Date: Unknown but most likely from the 1800s (ca 19th Century).  

Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.  

Size: The case measures ~4" long, ~1/2" in diameter at its thickest. The piece weighs less than half an ounce.  

Maker: Unknown  

Marks: Unmarked.  

Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: Very nice old and unusual needle case in very good condition, which would make a great addition to any collection.  

Condition: Apart from a small chip at the side of the tail (see the last two photos) the needle case is in good condition with no additional damage. It is intact and shows no appreciable wear. It is a bit soiled and has developed a nice patina from age and use. We are selling the case as found with needles wrapped in a red cloth inside it. The cloth in which the needles are wrapped shows damage but that does not affect the condition of the case. All in all, the piece is in very good condition given it is over 125 years old and has seen use over the years. Please see photos for additional condition information.