Exceptional Arts & Crafts Movement Hammered Copper Coal Bucket (Scuttle) with Liner
£550.00
Description
A superb antique fireside coal bucket (or purdonium), crafted from heavily hammered copper with bronze detailing, typical of the British Arts & Crafts movement, circa 1890–1910. This piece is an outstanding example of the Arts & Crafts commitment to honest, handcrafted materials and naturalistic decoration, designed to elevate functional domestic objects into works of art. Its robust form and rich, deep patina make it a distinguished addition to any period fireplace setting.
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Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
Full details will be confirmed during the ordering process.
Exceptional Arts & Crafts Movement Hammered Copper Coal Bucket (Scuttle) with Liner
A superb antique fireside coal bucket (or purdonium), crafted from heavily hammered copper with bronze detailing, typical of the British Arts & Crafts movement, circa 1890–1910.
This piece is an outstanding example of the Arts & Crafts commitment to honest, handcrafted materials and naturalistic decoration, designed to elevate functional domestic objects into works of art. Its robust form and rich, deep patina make it a distinguished addition to any period fireplace setting.
The Arts & Crafts movement, championed by figures like William Morris, rejected the mass-produced, often poor-quality goods of the Industrial Revolution. Instead, it emphasised the beauty of hand-craftsmanship, the natural character of materials, and integrated design.
The copper body is visibly hand-hammered (planished), showcasing the work of the craftsman. The decorative elements—such as stylised floral or insect motifs—and the functional tripod feet are applied, demonstrating an integrated design that serves both form and function. It aligns with the work of noted workshops such as the Newlyn School or pieces produced by manufacturers embracing the style, like W.A.S Benson or The Birmingham Guild of Handicraft.
The piece is highly decorative. It stands on three distinctive, splayed, scroll-foot or paw-style feet, which elevate the bucket from the hearth. The front is adorned with two symmetrical, applied bronze or darker copper plaques, featuring stylised organic motifs (resembling winged insects or stylised seed pods), riveted to the body in a typically Arts & Crafts manner.
It features a matching, domed copper lid, also lightly hammered, and fitted with an expressive, often curvilinear, Art Nouveau-style applied bronze handle, centred with an abstract or floral element.
The sides are fitted with two solid, cast handles (likely bronze or darkened copper) for ease of lifting.
The bucket comes complete with its original removable black metal liner. This liner is essential for practical use, protecting the copper body from the abrasive coal and allowing for easy transport and cleaning of the fuel.
Condition Report
In good antique condition, structurally sound, and fully functional.
Measurement
Height:    44 cm  /   17.3 inches
Width:    38 cm  /   15 inches
Depth:    38 cm /  15 inches
Weight:   4 k.g  /   8.8 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
