Fine Antique English Coal or Peat Bucket, two tone

An unusual English coal or peat bucket dating from the late 19th century, distinguished by the quality of its craftsmanship. The body is constructed from alternating sections of solid light and dark woods, carefully assembled and shaped into a deeply ribbed cylindrical form, with the same striped pattern continuing across the flared pedestal base. Raised on three rounded feet, it retains a slender brass swing handle and a removable brass liner for easy emptying. The precision of the joinery, richness of the contrasting woods, and beautifully turned profile give this practical household object a notably refined and sophisticated character. 

Buckets of this type were designed to keep coal or peat close at hand while presenting it in a form suitable for a well-furnished interior. Here, the unusually accomplished woodwork elevates the utilitarian form considerably. Today, it would make a particularly chic and unusual cachepot for a favorite plant, or could be repurposed as a bottle cooler with the addition of a watertight liner. It could also be used beside a fireplace for kindling. This is an object of real refinement, with enough character to stand beautifully in a sophisticated interior.