Hello, Lostmind. Yes , there is a recess, but it is quite shallow. The photo shows the size & depth of the recess. I still keep thinking it is from a kitchen or bathroom because of the plating. Hooked on to the thin edge of a cast iron lavatory sink as a towel bar? Barber shop chair accessory? Billiard table part? Toilet seat bracket, missing parts???? Nautical?? Regards, Lou