Antique French Copper Cheesemaking Colander with Long Wooden Handle — c. 1850
Antique French Copper Cheesemaking Colander with Long Wooden Handle — c. 1850
A charming piece of 19th-century French rural kitchen equipment, this oversized copper colander was traditionally used in cheesemaking, where its long handle allowed curds to be lifted and drained from large vats. Its scale, hand-worked construction and hundreds of individually punched drainage holes make it a true example of purpose-built French culinary craftsmanship.
The copper has been carefully restored and polished while preserving the evidence of its working life. Particularly beautiful is the decorative brass mounting plate securing the long wooden handle—a practical element given an unexpectedly elegant form.
Approximately 31 cm diameter × 12 cm deep; 96 cm overall length with a 66 cm wooden handle
Hand-worked solid copper with individually hand-punched drainage holes, rolled rim, long wooden handle and brass hanging ring
Originally made for traditional cheesemaking; today an extraordinary display piece for a kitchen, on a pot rack or wall display.
Dating & attribution: We date this French copper cheesemaking colander to approximately c. 1850, based on its hand-worked copper construction, individually punched perforations, handle assembly, materials and overall form. Age is assessed through the form, construction, materials, workmanship, decorative style and natural signs of age and use.
Why we love this…
With the exceptional ability to conduct heat efficiently, copper cookware promotes precision and excellence in cooking. Traditional tin lined interiors are virtually non-stick when used correctly. Cooking with copper is the best option for everything from sauces to slowly cooked stews, braising and oven gratins. It is unbeatable for confiture and pastry making.
– Cat
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Most pieces are vintage or antique, and previously used by chefs and accomplished cooks, and may have signs or marks of love & use. Please look at all of the details carefully.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT USE -- all cookware is ready to use, however, restored vintage and copper cookware does not work on induction tops and sometimes will not sit properly on modern burners. By purchasing, you are confirming that you are aware that this cookware item is not new, perhaps hundreds of years old and although restored (interior and polished) it will still have characteristics of use, age and is sold 'as is' with a detailed description and images.
Please use your cookware for its intended use -- sauce, stocks, stews, gratins, and as indicated in the listing details. Copper cookware with a tinned interior should never be heated empty or without sufficient liquid.
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For our U.S. customers, there's an important distinction between antique and vintage copper. Recent tariff changes can result in significant duties on French copper made after 1925. Genuine antique copper dating to 1925 or earlier, may meets the 100-year age threshold for antique classification and may qualify for duty-free entry. That's why we carefully document age and identify qualifying pieces as antiques on both the listing and customs forms. Final classification is determined by U.S. Customs. Our aim is clear documentation and a smooth arrival to your home.
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This item is sent with International express shipping. Tracking and shipping updates are available online through the destination country website.
Whenever possible, we will pack multiple items together, however, this does not always result in shipping charge savings. Please do not hesitate to inquire after you have received your package.
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IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT USE -- all cookware is ready to use, however, restored vintage and copper cookware does not work on induction tops and sometimes will not sit properly on modern burners. By purchasing, you are confirming that you are aware that this cookware item is not new, perhaps hundreds of years old and although restored (interior and polished) it will still have characteristics of use, age and is sold 'as is' with a detailed description and images.
Please use your cookware for its intended use -- sauce, stocks, stews, gratins, and as indicated in the listing details. Copper cookware with a tinned interior should never be heated empty or without sufficient liquid.
Most pieces are vintage or antique, and previously used by chefs and accomplished cooks, and may have signs or marks of love & use. Please look at all of the details carefully.
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Items that we sell are acquired in France and ship from France. All purchases are packed and shipped with extreme care. Because we adore everything we sell, we fully describe every item and welcome any questions about dimensions, condition or origin.
ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Every item listing in the shop has a detailed description and images and dimensions if applicable, along with a statement of condition (if vintage or antique) and use instructions (home goods). Read please carefully before purchasing.
MADE IN FRANCE
Our selection of vintage and antique copper decor and cookware is source from our Normandy flea markets, acquired from local restaurants and chefs, or found in brocante and antique shops.
RESTORED AT RABBIT HILL
Copper cookware and decorative items made by renowned copper makers, hand-restored on our farm using traditional artisan methods. Cookware is safe for cooking and ready to use for many more years to come.
TIMELESS QUALITY
Most of the cookware we sell dates to from the 18th to the 20th century and was created by copper artisans like Mauviel, Atelier du Cuivre, Gaillard - Paris and Bourgeat and made for culinary professionals through E. Dehillerin, Paris, Allez Freres, Grand Magasins du Louvre and A la Mangere.
CURATED FOR YOU
We hand-pick the perfect items that capture authentic French farm country lifestyle and culinary 'arts de vivre'. We adore using copper cookware in our kitchen and love to share our culinary expertise and inspiration through our Rabbit Hill restored pieces.
