Harlequin Patterned, Hand-painted, Lined Antique Wooden Box with Handwritten Inscription Griebel Instrument co and I'd bet was used

and I'd bet was used by a few generations of kids as a rattle (or bat

5 1/2" w x 6 3/4" d x 3 15/16" t and in very good condition

It is actually the dowel with tip that sold me on this

2 1/8" x 2 1/8" x 3/4" and in very good antique condition

though these have no other function than as whimsies

Harlequin Patterned, Hand-painted, Lined Antique Wooden Box with Handwritten Inscription Griebel Instrument co and I'd bet was usedA whole lot of love and care went into the creation of this little box, from the harlequin patterning on all four sides (carved then painted rather than inlaid), to the roses and vines painted on the lid, to the turning arm with arrow pointer that would have (it no longer holds tension) made it open like a puzzle box, to the pretty fabric lining on the interior. And, finally, a handwritten inscription on the underside: "Forget me not forget me never