Victorian brass swing handle kettle with lion head mounts and tinned interior

Introduction to Brass and Tinned Copper Alloy Kettles

Brass and copper alloy kettles were common household pieces, used for heating and serving hot water in the days before electric kettles. Many were tinned on the inside because bare copper can react, so a lining made them more practical for everyday use. Decorative mounts like lion masks were a popular way to dress up functional metalwork in the late Victorian and Edwardian period.

Description of the Kettle

This is a swing handle brass kettle with a rounded body, stepped shoulder and a raised circular foot, finished with a fitted domed lid and finial.

The handle is mounted with cast lion masks and the kettle has a long curved spout with a flared mouth, with the interior showing its original tin lining.

Pieces like this suit hearth side display as much as they do traditional kitchen or pantry styling, and the lion mask mounts give it that slightly formal late-19th century look.

Condition

General wear with verdigris. Overall it still displays well and is in good condition.

Why You Should Buy

If you like objects that make a shelf or hearth feel lived in rather than styled, this one does that job instantly.

General Information

Shipping

Shipping is calculated at checkout, with dispatch usually within 3 working days. We typically use Royal Mail, though we may occasionally select another trusted courier.

Follow Us Online

Watch on YouTube

Membership Videos on Patreon

Weekly Newsletter on Substack

Follow on Instagram

Pricing

Prices reflect past sales and our assessment of each item’s rarity and condition. Contact us if you’d like to discuss.

Research & Evaluation

All item details are based on our own research and expert evaluation. We welcome any questions or feedback.

Authenticity Guarantee

Every item is guaranteed to be as described, with provenance provided where available.

Returns & Refunds

We accept returns within 14 days of delivery. Please contact us first to arrange a return and refund.

Other Marketplaces

Some items are also listed on other marketplaces, but always at a higher price due to selling fees. The best price is here.

Buying & Selling in South Wales

Based in Cardiff and Caerphilly, we buy and sell antiques across South Wales. Local visits can be arranged.

Global Antiques with a Story

Discover rare and distinctive pieces from cultures and time periods across the world.