19th Century Chinese Cast Iron Bath Tub or Substantial Jardinière

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Description

A monumental Chinese cast iron bath tub, also highly decorative as a substantial jardinière or garden planter, likely Qing dynasty … Read more A monumental Chinese cast iron bath tub, also highly decorative as a substantial jardinière or garden planter, likely Qing dynasty or later, of deep elongated rounded-rectangular form with a thick molded rim, ring handles, and heavy figural feet. The exterior is richly cast with raised lotus blossoms, scrolling foliate vines, and stylized botanical panels beneath a geometric key-fret border, giving the vessel strong architectural and ceremonial presence. The surface retains a deep oxidized brown-black iron patina with areas of rust, mineral accretion, age wear, and softened highlights to the raised decoration. The basin interior is notably deep and heavily textured from use and exposure, while one end is cast with Chinese characters, further supporting its origin and functional character. Its impressive scale allows it to be cataloged either as a rare Chinese cast iron bath tub or as a dramatic indoor/outdoor jardinière, water basin, or sculptural garden vessel.

Measurements: 51" w x 27.25" d x 19.5" h; 18" deep basin. See less