What's the purpose of a bread box? For some reason I always thought bread boxes were supposed to be wood, and that some property of wood helped keep bread fresh.  Like a cigar box, perhaps.  But after looking for a bread box, I see that many are plastic and metal.  Before I buy a bread box, I should probably understand what exactly I'm purchasing.

What is a bread box for, and do all types of bread boxes accomplish the intended purpose?
In my experience, they're best at concentrating mold spores, and hiding away unsightly loaves. 

While chic, and quite popular in the days before plastic bags, they're not much use now. Pretty much the same as the "pie safe"