Copper Cooking Pot Appraisal

Vintage Copper Pot with Single Handle

This item is a vintage copper pot or basin, likely used for cooking or general household purposes. It features a rounded, bowl-like shape with a flared rim. The primary material is copper, evident from its characteristic reddish-brown color, which has developed a significant and varied patination. The exterior and interior surfaces show areas of deep reddish-brown, alongside extensive green and blue verdigris, particularly concentrated on the bottom interior. This verdigris indicates a long period of oxidation and exposure to moisture, suggesting considerable age or prolonged use. The pot is equipped with a single, semi-circular brass or bronze handle, attached to the pot body at two points on opposite sides. The handle appears to be solidly riveted in place, with two visible rivets on each side securing the handle mounts to the body of the pot. The handle itself has a smoother, slightly more polished appearance compared to the pot's body, hinting at a different alloy or less severe patination due to handling. The construction appears robust, with visible seams or joints indicating hand-hammered or hand-formed copper, a hallmark of traditional craftsmanship. There are no obvious dents or major structural damages, but the surface exhibits numerous scratches, scuffs, and areas of discoloration consistent with extensive use and age. The quality of craftsmanship appears high, with sturdy riveting and a functional design. While no specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the image, the style and heavy patination suggest it could date from the late 19th to early 20th century.