Large French Wooden Champagne Crate circa 1940–50 - 16½"

Evoking the quiet industry of old cellars, this substantial wooden shipping crate was originally made to transport champagne bottles and bears stenciled markings noting Champagne Extra Quality and Reims, firmly situating it within the Champagne region. Crafted in softwood, likely pine, the crate features nailed plank construction, reinforced corners, and cutout handholds at the sides for lifting. With its generous dimensions it was likely designed to hold twelve to sixteen bottles. The exterior retains bold, time-softened typography and numbering, while the interior is unlined and utilitarian, showing wear consistent with repeated use. The surfaces display scuffs, rubbed edges, darkened nail heads, and scattered stains, all contributing to its honest, workaday character.

Use it beside the hearth for logs, in a kitchen for linens and cookbooks, or in a bedroom for magazines. It is equally well suited to a wine cellar or home bar for storing bottles, bar tools, or glassware, and works beautifully in hospitality settings such as tasting rooms, cafés, or boutique hotels, where its history and patina add atmosphere. It can also be repurposed as a rustic planter when lined, or as a casual side table topped with a tray. The generous scale, honest materials, and lived-in patina bring warmth and authentic character to modern, country, and industrial spaces.