This wonderful firkin dressed in delicious apple green paint is certainly hard to resist! The scrumptious color will be a hit in your home and can transition perfectly into seasonal decorating with ease. This mid to late 19th century wooden, staved bucket would be a great addition to your collection and is in good condition.
My instincts tell me that the color may not be original to this piece as the middle area of the body and bottom are painted but the rest of the bucket is not. The top and bottom fingers or lapped over bands possess a realistic warm patina that sets off the painted area. The lid may also not be original but the patina is very complimentary to the overall look. This lid is a little warped as referenced in image 8. Image 12 reflects a batten on the underside that was used not only to secure the two piece wooden top but to also allow the lid to stay in place and not arbitrarily slide off. An area located near the bottom of the lid at the top is lighter in color as shown in image 11. There is plenty of exposed nail bleed which is an honest feature that only time can lend. Even though this lid is a marriage it does have a good fit.
When I got this bucket in, the bottom finger was not flush to the body and there was a one inch gap as the copper staple was missing. Harry was able to address this problem by using a new brad nail which worked out splendidly as shown in images 6 & 7! A couple copper tacks are also missing from this finger but the brad did it’s job by securing this band in place. All of the staves are secure and there is no “play” to be found which is quite a feat for a piece this old!
The handle swings freely and the wooden buttons located on either side are accounted for and hold the handle in place. This firkin is a medium to large size and will really stand out and get the attention it deserves! I can envision this piece used to hold a Christmas tree for the holidays or filled with pumpkins and gourds for harvest and Thanksgiving decorating too. Darling wee birds nests can be placed on top for spring decorating with a spray of colorful flowers laid near the bottom. Another idea is to place guest towels inside with the lid partially open so it can be used in the privy. You will certainly have fun decorating with this utilitarian piece of treenware fashioned long ago! Enjoy!
Firkin stands 13 ¾” tall including the handle (measures 9 ¾” without the handle), measures 9 ¼” across the top and measures 10” across the bottom.
~Freight (Standard Mail) included, however Insurance is optional and can be purchased @ checkout ~ within the continental U.S.
