Hammered Copper Hearth Cauldron — Wrought Iron Swing Bail, Tin-Lined

A hammered copper hearth cauldron in the form known to American primitive collectors as an apple butter kettle — a cylindrical copper vessel with a forged wrought iron swing bail terminating in a hanging loop for suspension from a pot crane or chimney trammel over an open fire. The body is formed from heavy-gauge hammered copper with a rolled rim and flat base; the iron bail brackets are riveted directly to the body walls. The interior retains its original tin lining, present throughout and structurally intact. The fire-blackened base and oxidized exterior confirm genuine hearth use. This form was produced across American and European farmhouse traditions through the 18th and 19th centuries and transitions naturally to decorative use as a log bin, planter, or statement kitchen piece. No maker's marks are present.

CONDITION

Good. Honest signs of use throughout — exterior shows heavy oxidation, scattered surface scratches, and tin bleed-through across the body wall; base is fire-blackened from hearth use. Interior tin lining is intact but heavily dulled, with a spot of rust-colored residue at the interior base. Does not sit flat.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Height (body only): 7½"
• Height (bail up): 14½"
• Width (with handle): 16"
• Diameter: 13"
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Material: Hammered copper body; wrought iron swing bail; tin-lined interior
• Handle attachment: Riveted iron bail brackets, two sides
• Campbell's Soup Can (4" H) Shown for Scale