Vintage James Kent Old Foley “Chrysanthemum” Shaving Scuttle
Description
Staffordshire, England | Mid-20th century
Before heated shaving cream, there was hot water and considerably better pottery.
Made by James Kent Ltd. at the Old Foley pottery in Staffordshire, this wonderfully elaborate shaving scuttle was designed to make the morning routine a little more civilized.
Hot water was held in the lower reservoir, while shaving soap rested in the pierced upper bowl so a brush could work up a warm lather. The open side compartment provided a resting place for the brush between passes.
Practical in theory. Extremely decorative in execution.
The Chrysanthemum pattern covers nearly every surface in dense cobalt blooms, from the sculptural body to the scalloped soap dish. Its unusual shape gives it the presence of a small tureen, although its original home would have been beside a bathroom mirror.
Its shaving days may be over.
Its career as a very good-looking vessel is not.
Very good vintage condition.
The piece displays overall crazing, scattered age-related discoloration, small surface marks, and wear to the underside consistent with previous use. There are also dark specks and minor manufacturing irregularities within the glaze.
Height: 4"
Width: 6 1/2" (at widest points)
Weight: 12 oz (0.75 lb)
Domestic Shipping
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Return/Exchanges
All sales are final once an order is placed.
Due to the unique nature of our products, we unfortunately do not offer any returns, exchanges or refunds. By Mae is not responsible for any lost or stolen items once an order is handed to the shipping carrier. If your package is stolen or missing, we will send you a link where you can file a claim with the corresponding shipping company.
Additional info
Location
Sourced in the UK
Styling
Originally made to keep shaving lather warm.
Today, we would use it for flowers, makeup brushes, wrapped soaps, or absolutely nothing at all.
Style it on a bathroom vanity, beside folded linens, or among other blue-and-white ceramics on open shelving. The pierced upper bowl could also hold a few short stems, while the lower compartment remains empty.
A bathroom object with main-room confidence.
Repairs
No repairs have been made to this piece.
Frequently asked questions
You ask we answer!
What are the descriptions of item's conditions?
EXCELLENT: Basically brand new—it's like the item never even had a life before you! No signs of wear, use, or washing. If there’s a flaw hiding somewhere, we'll spill the beans in the description.
VERY GOOD: Looks like it’s barely been touched. A few minor signs of love, but still in prime vintage condition. Any little quirks? We’ll tell you all about them in the description.
GOOD: This item has lived a little, but it’s still rocking it. Expect some fading, light stains, or a bit of piling, but it’s got plenty of life left. Any noticeable quirks? You’ll find them in the description, we promise.
Do you disclaim repairs done to items?
Any notable flaws or repairs will be noted under item's condition.
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We source from all over the world - from North America to Europe to Asia.
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