ANTIQUE FRENCH COPPER FISH KETTLE WITH BRONZE HANDLE AND CRAMP SEAMS

Description

I’m parting with this old French copper fish kettle – it’s one of those heavy, sturdy kitchen pieces from the early 1900s, probably from a manoir kitchen in Burgundy. I found it at a dealer in Chatillon-sur-Seine and’ve used it over the years as a planter – either hanging or standing – mostly for herbs and small plants. It’s now more of a decorative piece than a cooking vessel, though it still has that solid, old-school feel.

It’s about 58cm long from handle end to bracket, 4kg, and the copper is thick and well-made – you can see the hammered finish, and the iron handle is strong, even if it’s a bit rusty with some flaking. The bronze handle brackets are still secure, riveted with copper, and the cramp seams at both ends are solid, soldered with brass. The base is worn but flat and stable.

It’s not watertight anymore – I’ve filled it with water and it leaks slowly from a small split at the base. The interior used to have a tin lining, but it’s all worn now, stained, and a bit grimy. The copper has a lovely patina, and it’s been washed thoroughly – I’m sure it could polish up nicely if you wanted to.

I’ve been collecting vintage French kitchen items for years, and now I just don’t have space anymore. This one’s part of that hoard – mostly copper things from old French homes. I’ve only ever used it as a planter, and it’s actually quite sturdy despite the age and wear.

I can post it if you’re interested – just £7.99 via bank transfer (only cash on collection or bank transfer, no PayPal or card payments). No maker’s marks, and it’s not in pristine condition – the scratches, dents, and staining are all consistent with its age and use. Photos are a bit clearer than I’d like, but you can see everything.

It’s a solid piece with character – not perfect, but not broken, and it’ll make a nice statement piece in any garden or home. Based in Thornbury, Torridge District.