Antique French Copper Colander | Hand-Tinned Passoire | 19th Century
This antique French copper colander caught my attention because it feels so clearly made by hand. The perforations, the hammered copper, the iron ring handles, the worn tinning... everything about it has the feeling of a working French kitchen before things became standardized in a factory. It was made to drain, rinse, wash, and be used hard.
It's the craftsmanship that has turned something so practical into something genuinely beautiful.
Known in France as a passoire, this antique copper colander likely dates from the first half of the 19th century, consistent with the construction and materials. The walls rise gently to a heavy rolled rim, strengthened with an iron rod set inside the copper. This was made to be used daily, and most likely was.
The interior still holds its old hand tinning, or étamage, worn through in places to the warm copper underneath. That tinning is an important detail because it shows this was made for food contact, likely used for washing produce, draining blanched vegetables, rinsing soaked grains, or handling whatever the kitchen needed that day. There is also a period soldered repair across the underside, done long ago and now fully absorbed into the patina.
The age is visible in all the right places. The tinning is worn, the copper has deepened, there is surface oxidation, and the copper is thinner in some places than others. None of it takes away from the piece. It is exactly the kind of wear that makes old kitchen copper feel alive.
Today, it would be beautiful hanging on a wall, layered into a copper collection, or used as a low display bowl for fruit, walnuts, dried lavender, or market vegetables. It has so much potential in the modern household and is waiting for its next chapter to unfold.
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USA Pricing Information: Price includes duties, tariffs, customs, and shipping — no extra fees.
Antique French Copper Colander | Hand-Tinned Passoire | 19th Century
All the details you love
How long does it take to process an order?
Each order is carefully prepared to ensure it arrives safely and beautifully. Processing typically takes 2-4 business days. During this time, your item is:
- Checked one last time.
- Professionally packed for the utmost protection.
- Scheduled for pickup with a trusted shipping partner.
We don’t rush this step and it’s the extra time that makes sure your piece arrives exactly as expected, without damage or worry on your end.
For you, it means peace of mind: your item is in safe hands from the moment you click “purchase” until it’s at your door.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship worldwide from France, with a few exceptions (Russia, Belarus, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and China due to customs restrictions).
We regularly ship to the United States, Canada, all EU Countries, Korea and Japan, where French antiques and vintage kitchenware are especially appreciated.
Orders to these destinations are handled with extra care and shipped with trusted carriers to ensure safe and timely delivery.
If you’re in Hong Kong, Singapore or Taiwan, we also ship there.
Are returns or exchanges accepted?
We accept returns within 14 days of delivery in line with EU consumer law. Buyer covers return shipping and items must be returned in original condition. Refunds include the item price and original standard shipping.
We do not offer exchanges.
For more details, please see our Returns Policy.
Authenticity & Condition
Every piece is a genuine French or European antique or vintage find that has been carefully sourced in Provence and beyond.
We provide detailed photos and descriptions so you know exactly what you’re purchasing.
Signs of age such as patina or gentle wear are part of each item’s story and authenticity. They are not flaws but the character that makes antiques unique. If a piece has notable damage or restoration, we always state it clearly.
Our goal is to save you time and worry. When your order arrives, it matches what you saw online... authentic, original and ready to enjoy.
From Provence to Your Door
Rooted in Provence
A modern operation working at the slower pace of the South of France, with every piece chosen one at a time.
Carefully Prepared
Every piece is inspected, cleaned when necessary and professionally packed before it leaves Provence.
Thoughtfully Received
Shipping, customs and duties are handled in advance for United States customers. The experience is seamless.
Living with Provence
Every one of our items is a piece of French history looking to find its place and start its next chapter in your home.
