If you’re a fan of antiques, you’ve probably heard of a possum belly bakers table. But if you’re not familiar with this unique piece of furniture, don’t worry. In this post, we’ll delve into what a possum belly bakers table is, what it was used for, and why you might want to consider adding one to your home decor.
What is a Possum Belly Bakers Table?
A possum belly bakers table is a type of table that was originally used by bakers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name “possum belly” comes from the shape of the table’s lower storage cabinets, which are curved and resemble the belly of a possum.
These tables typically feature a large workspace on top, with the lower cabinets providing extra space for storing baking supplies, flour, and other ingredients. The cabinets are typically accessed through drawers or doors on the front of the table.
What Were Possum Belly Tables Used For?
As mentioned, possum belly bakers tables were originally used by bakers. The large workspace on top provided plenty of room for rolling out dough, mixing ingredients, and shaping bread before placing it in the oven.
The lower cabinets were used for storing supplies and ingredients, making it easy to access everything the baker needed without having to constantly move around the kitchen. The curved shape of the cabinets also helped prevent ingredients from spilling out.
Today, possum belly tables are more commonly used for decorative purposes. They can add a vintage and unique touch to any kitchen or dining area. Some people also use them as storage or display space for dishes, table linens, and other items.
How to Incorporate a Possum Belly Bakers Table into Your Home Decor
If you’re interested in adding a possum belly bakers table to your home decor, there are a few different ways you can incorporate it into your space:
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Use it as a kitchen island: If you have a large kitchen, a possum belly table can make a great substitute for a traditional kitchen island. You can use the top space for prepping food and the lower cabinets for storing pots, pans, and other kitchen supplies.
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Use it as a dining table: Depending on the size of the table, you could also use it as a unique and eye-catching dining table. This works especially well in smaller homes or apartments where space is limited.
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Use it as a decorative accent: Even if you don’t have a specific use for the table, it can still make a great decorative piece. Use it to display photos, plants, or other decorations, or simply let it stand on its own as a statement piece.
Where to Find a Possum Belly Bakers Table
If you’re on the hunt for a possum belly bakers table, your first stop should be antique shops and flea markets in your area. However, if you aren’t having any luck finding one locally, you can also check online marketplaces such as Etsy.
Keep in mind that these tables can be quite expensive, especially if they are in good condition or have been restored. However, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to find one, it can be a real treasure for your home decor.
What is a Hoosier Kitchen Cabinet?
While we’re on the topic of vintage kitchen furniture, it’s worth mentioning the Hoosier kitchen cabinet. This is another type of cabinet that was popular in the early 20th century.
A Hoosier cabinet is a freestanding piece of furniture that typically features a large workspace on top, with shelves and cabinets below for storing groceries, dishes, and other kitchen supplies. They were designed to be an all-in-one storage and workspace for the modern homemaker, and were especially popular in rural areas where homes often didn’t have built-in cabinets.
Like possum belly bakers tables, Hoosier cabinets are now prized as antiques and can add a unique touch to any home decor. They can often be found at antique shops and flea markets, although like possum belly tables, they can be quite expensive.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of vintage and antique home decor, a possum belly bakers table is definitely worth considering. Not only is it a unique and eye-catching piece of furniture, but it also has a fascinating history as a staple of early 20th century baking.
Whether you use it as a functional piece of kitchen furniture or simply as a decorative accent, a possum belly table is sure to add a touch of vintage charm to your home. So if you happen to come across one in your antique shopping adventures, don’t hesitate to snap it up.