Before the advent of refrigerated trucks, metal milk containers, such as this French polished copper from circa 1890, would be used by dairy farmers to transport milk to customers. The farmers would load several of these containers with fresh milk, where patrons would fill their personal vessels at the market before traveling home. To prevent spillage during the voyage, most of the milk containers had a handle that kept the lid in place, such as our container, which still has the original lid and handle. The side has been stamped with a “73”, which is most likely a production mark and not the capacity. Although it is no longer needed for transporting milk in today’s world, our polished copper milk container can be used as a decorative piece in a kitchen or as a unique umbrella holder for an entry hall or mud room.  It could also be used to display dried flowers.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with wear minor cavitations and scratches. Light buildup, specifically to the interior, commensurate to age and use. Rubs from the locking handle being activated.