What's That Thing: The Strangest Finds. Issue 216 (13 photos)

And here is a new part of our irregular column "Explain to me what this thing is?" Well, it means it's high time to look at the finds of curious guys from the vastness of the Internet. And, of course, to read the answers from Internet experts.

"We bought a table for 12 people. 1893, everyone has a "built-in" plate"





I think this is a dining table from some monastery or orphanage.

"I live in Berlin. There is a gap like this in the bathroom door. Is it for the cat or what?"



The thing is that there used to be a rule: there should be a window in the room, and if there isn't one, there should be ventilation. So, most likely, this is it.

"Does anyone know why we have such a drawer in our chest of drawers?"



Most likely, there was no running water in old houses. They used to put a bowl of water for washing in such boxes.

"Does anyone know what this is? I asked all my antique dealer friends"



I think some of it is missing. It is most likely a device for squeezing something out.

"What is this pile of antique silver for?"



From left to right: olive spoon, salad fork, ice tongs.

"My parents bought the chest of drawers at an antique store. We can't figure out what these holes are for."



It was probably in a hair salon or a beauty parlor. These are the holes for curling irons and a hair dryer.

"I got my hands on this antique table. There's an incomprehensible device inside"



This is an electronic record player. (An electronic record player is something that combines a record player and an amplifier. The photo shows a table for such a device).

"I found this unique tool"



This is a churi. A tool used in weaving for making carpets.

"This is a strange wooden box with long sticks inside. I thought it was just a chained nightstand"



This is a sewing cabinet. The sticks hold the threads.

"Our house is from the 1940s. There are sliding panels like this on top of the doors. What for?"



It's simple. Before air conditioners, these holes provided air circulation around the house, even with the doors closed.

"What could this be? A metal scoop and funnel connected by a chain"



This is part of a cosmetic set. For example, to pour cream or liquid into another jar.

"Why is there such a box in an old kitchen set?"



My granny had one like that. They put flour in it.

"I got this thing from a friend. Any ideas what it's for?"



This is an ornament that is worn over a cape or cloak to hold it on the shoulders.