19th Century French Elm Dough Bowl with Hand-Carved Handle

$875

About

This authentic antique French dough bowl, hand-carved from a single solid block of elm circa 1880, exemplifies the functional craftsmanship of traditional French kitchens. Elm was a favored wood for utilitarian vessels due to its durability, resistance to splitting, and ability to withstand repeated wet and dry use, making it especially well suited for bread making and daily food preparation. The bowl presents a classic elongated oval form with generous depth and thick walls, designed for mixing and kneading dough. Integral flat handles are carved at each end, allowing the bowl to be easily lifted when full. The interior and exterior retain visible adze and gouge marks, highlighting its hand-hewn construction. The surface displays a rich, time-softened patina with darkened areas from long use, along with natural shrinkage cracks, scattered worm holes, and an old knot opening, all consistent with age and authentic antique character. Today, this antique dough bowl serves beautifully as a decorative centerpiece on a farmhouse table, kitchen island, or console. It is ideal for displaying fruit, bread, dried botanicals, or seasonal arrangements and brings understated rustic presence to French country, primitive, or wabi-sabi interiors. Dimensions: 33″W x 21.5″D x 9.5″H.

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