Bouilloire Française En Cuivre Martelé Du XIXe Siècle

A handsome 19th-century French copper kettle, distinguished by its generous rounded body, long curved pouring spout and substantial movable swing handle. The kettle is entirely characteristic of traditional copperware made for everyday domestic use, while its sculptural proportions and beautifully aged surface give it considerable decorative appeal today.

The body appears to have been formed and hand-hammered from copper, with the numerous subtle hammer marks still clearly visible across the surface. The long spout is separately formed and joined to the body, while the broad copper handle is attached by shaped and riveted mounts, allowing it to be raised for carrying or lowered alongside the kettle. A removable circular copper lid completes the piece, topped by a small shaped finial.

The interior shows evidence of an old tin lining, traditionally applied to copper vessels intended for practical use. The exterior has developed a particularly attractive warm reddish-gold patina, with darker areas, oxidation, traces of verdigris and irregularities consistent with age and use. These elements have deliberately been preserved and contribute greatly to the authentic character of the piece.

A wonderfully decorative example of French 19th-century utilitarian copperware, equally appealing displayed in a kitchen, country house or alongside a collection of antique culinary objects.

H. 23 cm / 9.1 in.
W. 33.5 cm / 13.2 in.
Ø 27.5 cm / 10.8 in.