19th Century French Copper and Walnut “Bassinoire” Bed Warmer

$725

About

Decorate a kitchen wall with this French copper bassinoire, or bed warmer. Crafted in France circa 1880, the piece is dressed with a wooden handle, and features a copper vessel with lid at the end; the top with floral and leaf motifs is pierced with sporadically placed vent holes. The Bassinoire is in excellent condition, and adorns a rich patinated finish. Back in the days, hot coals would be placed into a bassinoire’s vented receptacle, and the user would pass the device under the covers, warming the bed during the rough winters. Copper was the preferred metal, as it is an excellent heat conductor. The handle was almost always wooden, allowing the bassinoire to be held safely. 46″ L.

Additional information