This late 19th-century ice bucket is crafted from oak and enhanced with silver-plated mounts. It features a white porcelain liner and is topped with a kangaroo finial, highlighting its Australian origin. The piece is marked "ELKINGTON, SYDNEY," indicating it was manufactured by Elkington & Co. at their Sydney branch. The bucket stands on four spherical feet, and the silver-plated mounts have scalloped edges.
Condition Report
The ice bucket is in good antique condition with minor wear consistent with its age and use. The oak body exhibits superficial marks and a patina developed over time. The silver plating shows light tarnishing, which can be polished if desired. The porcelain liner is intact, free from cracks or chips. The kangaroo finial remains securely attached, with its detailed features well-preserved. Overall, the piece maintains its structural integrity and continues to serve its intended function.
Dimensions
Weight: 2.525gm, Length: 19cm, Width: 11cm, Height: 32cm.
A Social Dining Essential
This ice bucket was intended for use during dining and social occasions, designed to hold and chill ice, a valuable commodity before widespread refrigeration. The porcelain liner served to insulate the ice, maintaining its temperature and preventing condensation from affecting the oak exterior. The lid, fitted with the kangaroo finial, provided easy access while adding a decorative touch.
Victorian Design Features
The ice bucket reflects Victorian design aesthetics, where utility was combined with ornamental features. The use of oak and silver plate was common in household items of the period, symbolising both durability and refinement. The inclusion of the kangaroo finial introduces an Australian element, suggesting that the piece was either made for the local market or as a commemorative item. The detailed workmanship of the silver mounts and the quality of the materials reflect the high standards of craftsmanship associated with Elkington & Co.
Techniques in Wood and Metalwork
The item showcases the art of combining wood and metalwork. The oak provides a sturdy structure, while the silver-plated mounts offer decorative appeal. Elkington & Co.'s expertise in electroplating is evident in the precise application of the silver. The kangaroo finial, cast in metal, demonstrates fine modelling techniques. The porcelain liner was likely moulded and fired to ensure a perfect fit within the wooden body, highlighting the integration of different materials.
Crafted by Elkington & Co.
Elkington & Co., established in Birmingham in 1836, pioneered electroplating techniques. The company held numerous patents and was recognised with Royal Warrants from Queen Victoria and subsequent monarchs. Their Sydney branch, active in the late 19th century, produced items catering to the Australian market's tastes and preferences. Elkington's products were known for their quality and innovation, contributing significantly to the decorative arts of the period.
Favoured by Collectors of Regional Antiques
Collecting antique ice buckets offers insights into social customs and technological advancements of past eras. Pieces like this, with regional motifs such as the kangaroo, are particularly significant in Australian collections. They represent a fusion of British manufacturing excellence with local cultural identity. Such items are sought after for their historical value and as examples of cross-cultural artistic expression.