Red Lacquer Baby Bath

This lacquered vessel dates to the late 19th century and was originally used as a wash basin or a baby's bathtub. The oval vessel is comprised of two parts - a removable shallow basin on top and a deeper tub underneath. The wash tub is crafted like a barrel, with slatted elmwood sides banded with wire cord, a method used for all kinds of provincial everyday vessels. Lacquered inside and out, this sculptural vessel brings bright color to modern interiors as an unusual planter or storage bin.