Reclaimed antique French limestone vat

Reclaimed antique French limestone vat : which dates from the 19th century or older. It’s one of several available, hand-carved by a stone cutter from a big single block. The stone block was hollowed out and the characteristic curved exterior was carved into shape. Tool marks are visible, partly worn, forming an excellent patina.

These laundry vats are called « ponnes » in French. They were used by washer-women (lavandières) who mixed of water with fine wood ash to make their equivalent of modern-day washing powder. To clean the clothes apparently the technique was to fill with pre-heated water before letting it out through a hole lower down (which could be fitted with a tap) to then be collected in a metal receptacle with a fire burning below it, to re-heat and pour the water in again at the top.

Weight approx : 700 kg (1,545 US lbs)

Dimensions approx:

• Exterior diameter : 120 cm (47 inches)
• Interior diameter : 100 cm (39.5 inches)
• Height : 80 cm (31.5 inches)