Large French Copper Daubière

"I like to use things that will live longer than I will," Patricia explains of this large copper daubière from her Paris apartment — and few pieces of cookware make that case more convincingly. Deep, rectangular and generously proportioned, this is a serious braising pot built for the long haul. The copper is thick and purposeful, its surface carrying a rich, mottled patina of rose, amber and warm bronze that speaks to long use and honest age. Flat, riveted strap handles extend from each side of the body; a matching strap handle sits centred on the close-fitting lid, secured with a small brass rivet. Patricia puts it simply: "I love the way food reacts to a sturdy copper pan, and love its aesthetics. In the end, it's all about a respect for quality in equipment, as well as ingredients." A daubière is the traditional vessel for a daube, the long-braised meat dish that is one of the great pillars of French home cooking. This one, generous in scale, would hold a whole braise with ease. Display it on a kitchen shelf or dresser, or put it straight to work — it is entirely ready for either.