Antique Copper Bed Warmer with Wooden Handle

Before electric blanket and space heaters, bed warmers, also known as bassinoire, were commonly used in Europe and America in the 16th to the early 20th centuries.  This antique bed warmer features a sturdy wooden handle with a rounded copper body. The copper has a rich, aged patina and is perforated for heat circulation. It was intended to be filled with hot water or heated rocks and then slide between the sheets to warm the bedding before one laid down to rest. Bassinoires were an essential part in keeping warm at night during the 18th century. The sturdy wooden handle allows for safe maneuvering and a simple metal loop is added to the end so it could be hung above or near the fireplace or kitchen, making them both functional and ornamental pieces of vintage craftsmanship. In good condition, with minor signs of wear and aging including deep scratching on wooden handle, and oxidation to the metal body.