Late 19th-Century Belly Amphora-Shape Double-Handled Cramp Seam Copper Vessel

Details

Description

Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Note: Faux flowers are not included.

Copper’s earthy vibe plays well with most any design style in … Read more Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Note: Faux flowers are not included.

Copper’s earthy vibe plays well with most any design style in today’s modern home. This late 19th-century belly amphora-shape hammered copper vessel, with hand forged rivets, originates, we believe, from France and was handcrafted sometime in the early 20th-century, although there is no provenance or hallmark.

Photographed in the round to show the varying shades and nuances of the vessel. The vessel has cramp seams (mistakenly called dovetail seams) which are the zig-zag lines running around the base and up the sides or middle of an antique copper vessel or pot. These are the line marks where the coppersmith joined pieces of copper together to form the vessel, something like how a dressmaker sews pieces of cloth together to make a dress. If you see “yellow stuff” around a cramp seam it is typically a brass alloy. After the copper layers are cramped, molten brass is often dripped on the cracks and smoothed over like caulk to help seal up and strengthen the seam, a process called brazing. Like a good tailor, a skilled coppersmith makes nice flat seams that are tight and strong, but these are seams that can survive for centuries. The era of cramp seams ended when welding became economical enough for the chaudronneries to invest in the new equipment. The principles of welding were discovered during the early 19th century but it remained an experimental technique until the turn of the 20th century.

This beauty measures 15” x 14½” x 14½” H/W/D; 7¼” opening; interior height 14½”; weight 5 lbs. 8 oz. Handcrafted from hammered copper with hand forged copper rivets and double band copper handles. The vessel is in excellent condition with age-appropriate wear. There is a slight, mostly indiscernible ding on one side (see photos) along with exterior and interior verdigris patination.

Exuding just the right amount of character and vintage charm, fill it with live or faux florals (not water tight so use a liner) to serve as a marvelous accent or centerpiece on an entryway or dining table. For a lover of antique copper pieces or for an Arts & Crafts aficionado, this beauty should be a must buy or the perfect gift for someone who is!

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