Food Mill Appraisal

Vintage Conical Food Mill / Sieve with Stand

This item is an antique or vintage-style food mill, commonly known as a 'sieve' or 'food strainer with stand,' designed for processing fruits and vegetables. It consists of two primary components: a large, conical, perforated metal hopper/sieve and a separate wire metal stand. The hopper appears to be constructed from a dark, oxidized metal, possibly tin-plated steel or aluminum, showing a considerable amount of wear and a dark, aged patina. The perforations are uniform, small, circular holes distributed throughout the conical shape, essential for separating pulp from skins and seeds. The top rim of the cone is reinforced with a rolled edge, suggesting sturdy construction. Visible condition issues include surface discoloration, scratching, and general wear consistent with age and use; there are no obvious signs of significant damage like dents or cracks, but the surface finish is far from new. Attached to the side of the conical sieve are two metal rods, likely part of a handle or a mechanism for rotation, although the actual crank or pressing mechanism is not visible in the image. The stand is made of dark, slender wire metal, bent into a stable, angular shape with multiple points of contact to support the conical sieve. The stand's dark finish matches the patina of the sieve, indicating they are likely original companions. The wire construction of the stand provides a minimalistic yet functional support, allowing the sieve to be elevated for catching processed food in a bowl underneath. The overall aesthetic suggests a robust, utilitarian kitchen tool from the mid-20th century or earlier, built for durability rather than decorative appeal. The craftsmanship appears to be functional and straightforward, typical of mass-produced kitchen tools of that era.