Apple Butter Kettle Appraisal

Antique Copper Apple Butter Kettle with Wrought Iron Handles

This is a large, antique hand-hammered copper vessel, traditionally used as an apple butter kettle or wash boiler. The piece features a deep, rounded bowl construction with a wide, slightly flared rim. It is crafted from heavy-gauge copper sheeting, showing a rich, aged patina with deep bronze and reddish-brown tones. Two thick wrought iron 'swing' or drop handles are attached to the sides via heavy-duty iron lugs, which appear to be hand-riveted to the body. The interior of the pot shows significant oxidation and verdigris (green mineral buildup), which is characteristic of historic copper cookware that has not been recently polished. There is at least one visible repair or seam line near the mid-section, suggesting traditional hand-construction and brazing techniques. The surface is covered in minor dings, shallow dents, and surface abrasions, consistent with decades of heavy agricultural or domestic use. Based on the construction style and materials, this piece likely dates to the 19th century or early 20th century. While no maker's mark is immediately visible in the provided view, the quality of the fold at the rim and the industrial strength of the iron hardware indicate professional blacksmithing and metalworking craftsmanship.