very unique and unusual early antique american industrial folding a-frame oak wood ladder attributed to the a.j. phillips, fenton, mich. the steps or rungs are reinforced with steel thru bolts affixed to opposed cast iron discs. the side opposite of the rails containing the rungs contains a multitude of wood bracing for added support and stability. the topmost step is supported by two opposed ornamental cast iron brackets. the folding or drop-down paint can tray is original and intact. the heavily worn industrial wood ladder contains a label declaring the ladder "tested and approved" by the good housekeeping institute. the ladder was salvaged from a commercial sign contractor in business since the turn of the century.