Early 20th Century English Hand-Painted Iron Fire or Coal Bucket with Crest

$695

About

Place this large, colorful antique stand at your front door or in your mudroom to collect umbrellas, canes or other accessories. Created in England, circa 1930, the green iron bucket with top and back handle features the official crest of the Cannock Urban District Council, a local government authority that once administered the town of Cannock in Staffordshire, England. The detailed coat of arms is framed by golden lettering identifying the district, and it centers on a richly symbolic shield. The shield itself features black and green horizontal stripes, crowned by a stag’s antlers, symbolizing local wildlife and hunting traditions, and a miner’s pickaxe, reflecting Cannock’s industrial and coal-mining heritage. Resting above the shield is a helm flanked by oak branches, and on top, a naturalistic oak tree grows from a red flame-like base, possibly referencing strength, endurance, and regeneration. Among the foliage are symbolic tools and items including a book (likely representing education or governance) and a hunting horn, reinforcing ties to labor and the rural character of the district. Beneath it all, a ribbon bears the Latin motto: “Labor in Venatu”, or “Labour in the Chase” or “Toil in the Hunt.” This phrase underscores a strong work ethic, the balance between industry and tradition, and a community built on effort, endurance, and the pursuit of purpose. The colorful bucket is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns rich hand painted colors. Versatile, the coal or fire bucket could also be used to hold wood burning wood next to a fireplace. Measures: 18.75″ W x 16″ D x 17″ H (not including handle)

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