When dairy farmers traveled to the market, they would use large metal jugs, such as this cast iron milk container, to sell milk to local customers. The cast iron has been stamped on the side wall with “SLM”, which is the production mark of a Swiss company known as Société laitière Maggi (Maggi Dairy Company). In the early 20th century, SLM had a strong presence in northern France and Belgium, as the company founder, Julius Maggi, moved to Paris in 1902. A versatile item, you can use the cast iron milk container as a decorative kitchen accessory with the lid on or hanging to the side, as it is chained to one of the large ears. It would also make a unique umbrella holder or flower vase.

CONDITION: Good antique condition, with minor rubs and cavitations. Old repairs to one ear and visible weld marks near the bottom. The iron has developed a unique mottled patina from some light oxidation.