Over the years I’ve been lucky to come across little ‘treasures’ in secondhand shops. I wrote about one such haul before but often or not I’ve simply found a single interesting knife or spoon or bowl. Something that someone once cherished that was deemed no longer needed for one reason or another. And even though I look to move on, every once in a while I let myself be seduced by the aged glory of a useful item and I buy. But there are some strict criteria I apply. Oh no siree, not every vintage vessel can seduce me for it still has to have a ‘use’.
I’ve bought a dusty wooden coffee grinder which I took apart and cleaned and which now grinds our beans when asked. And, of course, knives and forks always have their uses if they still have sharp edges or points. Old enamel roasting tins look great photographed, vintage glassware can add elegance economically and who doesn’t want to find a vintage Le Cresuset casserole set in a local charity shop?
Last year I began to record my finds so I’d thought I’d share some of the resulting photos with you, not all the photos are great shots (lighting needs to worked on) and there are more to be edited (always not enough time for that) but here are some initial photos just to inspire others to get out there, ferret and find.
Love the aged!
This lovely etched glass cake stand with dome gets used all the time. At the moment it houses the remaining Chocolate Plum Pudding Truffles I wrote about before Christmas.
The spoon was one of my most recent purchases, the bowl has embossed fruit and grape decorations. The knife is particularly interesting, 2 edged blade with fierce saw teeth on one edge. I'm not sure if it was made for a particular purpose so would welcome any suggestions.
Very dainty, well used knife and fork set with wooden handles, I think they may have been a picnic set.
The very Le Creuset casserole pots I refer to above, vintage 1970s and in excellent condition. Have had lots of use since I bought both for the princely sum of £25!
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I’d be extremely envious had I not stumbled across some vintage numbers belonging to both my grandmothers over Christmas…oh, who am I kidding? I covet your cake dome like nobody’s business…
..it is lovely, just luck. You’ll have to share your finds soon! Happy New Year : )
They look lovely. I am rather partial to old cutlery in particular. Is the knife a fruit knife?? For cutting carving your very Victorian fruit platter??
Not sure, Linda as it is rather large. The ‘blade’ is about 22cms (can’t find the measuring tape) so that seems large for a fruit knife?
Hmm it might still be I have a similar knife and am sure I was told it was a fruit knife when I got it, will investigate
Wonderful stuff, Ailbhe! Such great finds. I love rooting around for stuff like this too but I bow to your skillz.
Glad you like ‘em Niamh I was born under the sign of the pig (chinese zodiac) and we pigs love snuffling about rooting out goodies!
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