Folk art country bench/shelf, early 20th century

Early 20th-century folk art country bench. Note the exquisite details of this piece, born of necessity, and its unusual, long, and rather narrow shape. It has a rustic charm, yet its appearance is somewhat feminine. Perhaps it was used for sewing, knitting, and mending in the evenings by the fireplace, knees drawn up. Shows of wear and a wonderful patina. Length 45cm; width 12cm. Height 16cm. A very attractive piece.