I’ve been putting it off, but it is time to do an update on that Victorian Chamber Pot we previously blogged about from the secondhand store. As mentioned before, the bottom of the lidded chamber pot has no markings on it but I purchased it anyway for $4.50 and went about researching the topic. It looked to be in great shape, no cracks but it had one small chip on the rim which I think might have been done in the store.
Chamber pots were stored under the bed for easy use. This one looks like it was pulled out frequently and the bottom edges have worn down. It is odd there is no markings for the piece but perhaps it worn off along with the edge of the pot.
This piece has pink and purple flowers encircling the lid and sides, I believe they are pansies. The edge of the lid has a gold band around it. The lid and base handles are also decorated with gold paint. This floral design looks very Victorian era to my eyes. However, of course, I am no way an antique expert so I am only guessing here.
Detective Work
I was not able to find the exact chamber pot online but found one which looked similar to Maddock Pottery (Lamberton Works) produced Royal Porcelain pieces. The company was located in Trenton, NJ and was in business from 1892 to 1923. The timing seems to be about right.
This is a close up view of the handle on the lid of the chamber pot.
Clean Up of Chamber Pot
When I purchased the item, someone with very dirty and greasy hands picked up the item in the store. So, with a damp soft rag, I carefully cleaned off the finger prints. I didn’t dare use any additional water on this item or dunk it in water.
I left the lid and handle somewhat dusty as I wasn’t sure how they would clean this.
But all in all, it looked better.
Donating the Piece to a Historic Site
Well, I decided to donate this piece to a historic site. So, I carefully packed the piece in a cardboard box with paper packing. A worn hand towel was placed between the lid and the pot to cushion things on the ride over.
I drove to the historic site but I had to walk quite a distance to get to the main house. When I arrived, a employee was giving a tour of the building but told me they do not accept donations unless it relates directly to the site.
I told her I thought it was an unusual piece, so she said I could leave it with my phone number and they would call me to come pick it up if they couldn’t use it. I left it on a desk in the basement with some information about it. As of today, the historic site has not called, so I’m thinking they liked it and could use it. I want to tour the place at some point and see if it is indeed under one of the beds in the bedrooms.
Bourdaloues (Pots De Chambre Ovale)
While researching Victorian Chamber Pots I happened to come across Bourdaloues. Of course, I’m looking that up. As it turns out, these small pots are more valuable than chamber pots.
Bourdaloues were designed only for women and are made quite beautiful. The portable pots or coach pots were made in England. They were quite small, designed for travel so it made it easy to take them on trips, church, or other places without public bathrooms. They were also taken to long banquets where ladies would relieve themselves behind curtains. Actually, they look a little like a fancy gravy boat. Once, the lady had finished going, the lady’s maid would stand nearby to take the small chamber pot and empty it.
Sorry, I don’t have a photograph of a bourdaloue but you can check online.
OK, I’m having a little trouble trying to imagine riding in a coach and using this little portable potty while being jostled around. Not to mention if others are looking. I’m not shy but I think going behind a tree or bush is a better option.
Ending Notes on Victorian Chamber Pot
Well, once again, we are on a different tangent than what we started with. In conclusion, I was glad I was able to find something which was given away but, in my opinion, was found treasure.
Happy secondhand shopping and don’t forget to look for those unusual pieces. I’m always checking out the secondhand art work for important works of art.
Recently, a saleslady told me, “We get the collections that the children and grandchildren don’t want”. So true, but one person’s trash is another one’s treasure.
Good bye Victorian Chamber Pot and I hope you like your new home.
Resource Sites: janeaustenworld.com and Wiki How to do anything.