"ANTIQUES: EDUCATED EYE"
Forget the French sticks we call baguettes! One of these things could be a circus wagon, a baby crib or something you might see an organ grinder stuff a monkey into. But, it's none of those things: this is an 18th century example of a distinctive box known as a "panetiere" from Arles, France. It originally sat on the table or workspace, but was eventually hung on the wall, away from little creatures. These old boxes are very hard to find because the French themselves love them. Wendell Patterson of The Whimsey Shoppe in Dallas says that if you find one this old, expect to see a repair or two. "You just want to ensure that whatever was done to it was done with care and is in keeping with the character and quality of the piece."
The other item is the 1950's version of the breadbox, from my husband's family kitchen when he was a boy. It's made of metal, and has small ventilation holes on the back. I guess if your bread is wrapped in plastic it's already protected, but it's a nice way to neaten up the counter. What a dramatic difference!
The third item is what I call the best compromise because I love natural materials: The wicker basket! There is no end to the uses of the wicker basket- dirty clothes, clean bread, whatever you need!
My holiday wish for you is a basket of whatever you most enjoy! P.S. Ironically, I'm gluten and bread free! ;
HAPPY CHANUKAH, MERRY XMAS and A VERY PEACEFUL NEW YEAR! 
