Early 20th Century English Hand-Painted Iron Fire or Coal Bucket with Crest

$695

About

Place this large, colorful antique stand at your front door or in your mudroom to collect umbrellas, canes or other accessories. Created in England, circa 1930, the iron bucket with top and back handle is decorated with a shield bordered in sky blue and features two large, intertwined fish, dolphins or mythical sea creatures, rendered in dark gray against a lighter grey background. These marine creatures often symbolize protection, navigation, and salvation, especially in heraldry associated with coastal towns or seafaring families. Above the shield sits a knight’s helmet in silver and black, decorated with a torse (twisted band of fabric) and stylized mantling flowing outward in silver-gray scroll work. At the top, the crest is formed by two large, crossed dolphins or sea creatures, their tails curled upward, a dramatic maritime flourish. The shield is also decorated with small gold birds in the corners, possibly martlets (stylized heraldic birds without feet), which traditionally symbolize continuous effort or noble purpose. At the base is a scroll bearing the Latin motto: “In Deo Fidemus”, or “In God We Trust.”
The colorful bucket is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns rich hand painted colors. Versatile, the coal or fire bucket could also be used to hold wood burning wood next to a fireplace.
Measures: 18.75″ W x 16″ D x 17″ H.

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