Separating the Wheat from the Chaff

 To separate the wheat from the chaff means to sort out the good from the bad. And this rare and unusual hand-carved wooden norag bench or seat is certainly a good thing indeed!  

This bench once sat on top of a base holding multiple round metal blades. 

Used for centuries in Egypt, a team of animals would pull the norag in circles over harvested wheat, barley, or other grain, separating the kernels from the outer husks. The driver sat in the seat or bench, guiding the team. Sometimes the seat was plain and utilitarian, but in many cases it was elaborately carved or decorated, demonstrating the importance of this tool to farmers.

The example in our trove is ornately carved on every side

The back of the bench has graceful Arabic calligraphy.

All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

16300-18