I hope someone will know and tell me what it is that is inside this bottle! Often one sees these bottle whimsies with various tools inside, or a winder, or a cross, but I for the life of me can't figure out quite what this one is. A sled? Part of a plough or harness or some sort? ??? Whatever it is, it is as it was made, as the carved stopper is locked forever in place by a cross bar, and there are no parts that have fallen off inside. The bottle--a partially molded hand-blown one with an Ss on the bottom--dates it I believe to the 1880s or so, when I am sure whatever this is would have been immediately identifiable!
8 1/8" t x 3 1/2" w x 1 5/8" and in excellent antique condition.