Funny Old Welded Iron Caterpillar birch box I really have no idea

I really have no idea

I first grabbed this lovely wooden box for its great shape and dovetailed corners

to the lacing up the front of her bodice

to the leafy trees

NY made--endless possibilities

Funny Old Welded Iron Caterpillar birch box I really have no ideaKind of silly, but kind of sweet! I'm not sure, but wonder whether the cast iron balls that comprise his body might be old musket balls (?), which someone decided to turn into a little caterpillar at some point, welding on the iron legs, antennae, and button eyes and nose. At any rate, its definitely pretty old, and fairly rusty, and not fussy at all, which I think is much of what makes it good! 4 3 8" l x 1 3 4" w x 2 1 8" t.