Small Ancient Copper Jug??

Maybe it was already scrapped once. I got similar edge breakage when unrolling the rim to get a steel wire out.

 

That's the problem with the photos and the lighting in the photos,if you enlarge the top photo the area below the neck appears to be cast as there are no apparent hammer marks.

 

Yes, I was actually suspecting it might be cast, but couldn't justify that speculation based on the photos. I was suspicious about the OP describing it as having significant weight, which would be uncharacteristic. The cross section of the smaller patch also looks too thick. Without handling it, it is difficult to tell.

 

@Hollyblue - do you think the "hammer marks" might be tool marks on a wax model? Who casts utilitarian copper/bronze/brass pitchers (and leaves such an unfinished surface)? And if not utilitarian, then that seems to move it toward an art piece. (Or more nefarious object.)

 

There are too many questions in the photos,did you think the large riveted "patch" the covers the whole bottom would actually hold a liquid without the inside of the pitcher coated with "pitch"?

 

No.

 

Hi folks, home again so some more detail and pics for you based on feedback to date. Really hoping someone can sensibly date this for me.

- have included pics using the flash for hopefully better lighting.
- pics of the inside of the jug
- pic of the jug holding water. Yes it holds water no problem at all which surprised me entirely given what looks like old patching. Was planning to put colourful dried flowers in it. Looks like I have more options now!
- have tested with a magnet. A magnet is not attracted to any surface of the jug or handle. This helps confirm the material as copper which is what I think it is. Copper and other metals like brass are not magnetic as I understand it.

Measurements:

Height 130mm to highest point.

Width 115mm

Jug Opening 90mm by 75mm.

Handle 70mm in length. 35mm wide at widest point. Handle all one piece, 55mm width at the top where attached.

Will post the weight once I can weigh it soon.

Thanks all.

 

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Oh, it is smaller than I thought, and I love its battered look
Perfect photos! I'm in no manner a specialist in metal antiques, but it seems OLD To me

 

While the damage and reworking are unusual, there is nothing distinctive about the basic shape or technique (if it is actually hammered rather than cast). The method has been used from antiquity to the turn of the century Arts and Crafts style, to modern shop school classes. Similar pitchers are still made in the Middle East, Mexico, and India. Nor is it difficult to patinate copper to create a variety of "antique" surfaces. Without provenance, it is unlikely that it could be accurately dated. And without provenance to prove it is something special, I imagine the damage only adds "shabby chic" value.

 

Thanks, yes it looks like this jug will continue to hold its secret life, whatever history that is.

 

Yeah I love the look too. It certainly has decent and genuine age but too difficult to tell from what is available how much age it seems. The colourful dried flowers that go in there won’t mind though and will achieve a neat end look.