Antique 19th Century Piggin Staved Bucket with Primitive Gourds

This antique "piggin" was considered a necessity for early farm life as it served a purpose acting as a large grain scoop to possibly scatter feed for the chickens, pour grain into either a sack or barrel and also served as a milk bucket. During the colonial era some buckets were fashioned as small barrels. However one stave was much longer than the others. This special carved stave, used as a handle, helped facilitate the job of scooping grain with less effort. Piggins are getting harder to find as the demand for barrels and buckets these days has risen tremendously!

When I found this bucket apparently it had been in pieces and had to be put back together by the previous owner. He did an amazing job and this sturdy piece should survive quite nicely for another 100 years. After I purchased this unique find I decided to paint the galvanized bands a rich chocolate color that appropriately mimics the period dark banding. Many of the bands on buckets such as this one would eventually have been replaced and warrant a "make ~ do" repair to aid in the continued use of this piece. Image 4 represents an area on the wood where the original band once resided because the color is slightly lighter compared to the rest of the wood patina. Tiny brad nails were used to secure the metal bands in place and this bucket is very strong and secure.

The long handle is smooth to the touch from years of gripping and use which signifies authentic wear. Overall condition is very good without any chips or cracks to report. Image 6 shows the honest and true wood surface "flavor" that is most desirable.

I added some interesting gourds, quince slices, pods and wee pumpkins in the piggin as a festive accent for autumn decorating. The oak leaves are not included with the gourd contents.

This piggin would look terrific near the hearth, beside a bucket bench or angled in a little nook of your home creating instant autumn magic with time worn appeal! You can replace the gourds and fill with fresh greens and berries during the holiday season too. Enjoy!

Overall height including the handle is 15" (9 1/2" bucket itself), 10" across the top & 8 1/2" across the bottom. Gourds vary in size ~ the largest pumpkin gourd is 4" across the top and 3" tall, the smallest gourd measures 3 1/2" Tall, and 2" across the middle (widest point).