A beautifully proportioned watering can dating from the 1950s, constructed from copper and brass and retailed by Illums Bolighus in Copenhagen.

The design is particularly striking, combining a tall conical copper body with an exaggerated looping brass handle and an exceptionally long, slender brass spout. Despite being an entirely functional object, the simplicity of the construction and almost graphic quality of its silhouette give the piece a strong sculptural presence.

Examples of this model have variously been attributed to the Austrian designers Carl Auböck and Karl Hagenauer. While both names have become associated with the design on the secondary market, we have so far been unable to locate period documentation establishing either designer. We have therefore chosen to catalogue the piece under Illums Bolighus, whose stamped mark appears on the underside.

The watering can was purchased by us in Denmark and is stamped ILLUMS BOLIGHUS to the underside. Other examples of the same model are known bearing both Illums Bolighus and Made in Denmark markings, supporting the Danish production of the design.

The combination of copper and brass has developed a particularly attractive surface over the past seventy years. The copper body has mellowed to a warm reddish-brown with areas of darker oxidation and spotting, while the brass handle and spout have developed their own softer golden patina. The interior retains areas of green oxidation consistent with its age and original use.

The piece has been lightly cleaned and treated with a specialist metal wax to help preserve the existing surface. We have deliberately not polished the copper or brass, retaining the patina developed through decades of use. There are minor marks and scratches as would be expected from a functional object of this age, but these sit naturally within the overall surface.

Importantly, the watering can remains fully functional and can still be used as originally intended. Equally, its extraordinary proportions and long sweeping spout give it a sculptural quality that allows it to work particularly well simply as a decorative object.

We absolutely love these watering cans and have an example in our own private collection. Whenever we come across one on our travels, we try to buy it, and over the years we have both sold examples and given them to friends as gifts. They are objects we have a particular affection for. We love the way the copper and brass develop different patinas alongside one another, and especially the contrast between the simple conical body, large looping handle and extraordinarily long spout. For us, it is one of those relatively modest objects that becomes increasingly appealing the longer you live with it.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.