What is a Dry Sink?
Dry sinks were used to hold the pitcher and wash basin that were standard in any well equipped home. You might find a dry sink in the kitchen or bedroom area, and more than one farmer's wife kept one on the back porch.
The dry sink was a cabinet with a recessed area on top. More expensive dry sinks had these areas lined with copper or other waterproof material. The recessed area kept the water from the pitcher and bowl contained while someone washed up. The dry sink also had storage areas where extra towels and personal items would be kept. Generally there was a hook, bar, or other device to hang up the towel. Dry sinks were often made of pine, but in more affluent homes any wood might be chosen. During the Victorian era, the tops of dry sinks might have been level rather than recessed, and had a slab of marble across the top for the pitcher and basin to rest upon.
Decorating with an Antique Dry Sink
So versatile is this piece of furniture that you can add it to almost any room. It is a nostalgic addition to a large country kitchen, piled high with cookie jars and other collectibles. In a Victorian bedroom it looks just right with a pitcher and bowl, and it can be transformed into a bathroom vanity as well. Other uses for dry sinks are: night stands, side tables and kitchen counters.
The dry sink pictured above is a solid wood reproduction and will be featured for sale in the Persnickety Primitives shop. The piece looks like a well worn Primitive dry sink. It has a covered box built on top that serves as additional storage.
(Research materials taken from: "Love To Know Antiques")
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