Foot warmers were perforated boxes mostly heated by coal and widely used in Northern Europe, including Holland, Scandinavia and the British Isles during the 17th and 18th centuries. They were regarded as a necessity in damp, poorly-heated houses and public buildings with stone or brick floors, but would have only been found in prosperous middle-class homes. They were also used in carriages to keep the occupants warm on long journeys and in order to spread the heat, they required perforated sides which made for elaborate carvings. They often had iron handles, allowing them to be portable.
This Dutch oak example dates to c1780, and is hand carved in openwork to all sides, featuring birds amid foliage surrounded by borders of scrollwork, with a hinged cover. Unusually, the underside of the box is relief carved with a beautiful vase of flowers.
Measurements: 19.5cm high x 26cm long x 24cm wide
Condition: Good overall condition with one crack to the carved openwork, and likely a 19th Century repair to the openwork on lid, as pictured. Natural wood patina, and grime within the openwork is commensurate with age. We have given the box a light clean, however, some dirt still remains within the crevices and a deeper clean will be required if you would like it removed entirely.
