Wood waxing

[Hazelbarn]

Afternoon!
Wondering about putting a bit of wax on this oven pot lid (? actually not sure if this pot inside was for washing or cooking? Both?) to bring it back to life a bit. It’s never been treated as far as I can tell. Hmm maybe I should just clean it..? Don’t want to do anything detrimental, it’s clearly been looking after itself fairly well! Any thoughts welcome. If waxing ok what kind/colour would you go for? Not sure what wood it is.

 

[Feltwell]

As I understand it they were a general hot water source for the house, particularly for washing clothes - not for cooking. It's unusual that yours has survived, most (including mine ) have long since been taken out to provide more space.

This old thread, although the pictures have gone, will provide some pointers. I'd clean that lid with hot washing soda (not caustic soda), then lightly & gently sand if it needs it, shellac, then clear wax. But don't go too mad with it!

https://www.periodproperty.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=15367&hilit=caustic

What timber? I'd suggest that looks like it's been knocked up from T&G floorboards, so it's probably pine, underneath the grime!

 

[88v8]

Yes, a very rare survival although 'coppers' of various sorts were a common fitment in new homes up to WWII. We had just the tiled base remaining in our 1920 house.

The lid was a very utilitarian artefact, It would never have been 'cleaned' as such, as it got a steaming every time it was used.
I'd just clean it as suggested, then wax it with or without the shellac.
Try the underside first.

Note; all waxes darken the wood a bit, so probanly no need for a stained wax here. Apply with a brush, buff with a brush.

Ivor

 

[Socksitis]

I too have the copper boiler with the lid, delighted to see another one. I did treat mine with a woodworm treatment, but other than that it is as is. Even has the copper nails in it.

 

[Hazelbarn]

Thanks everyone! Fascinating to know what it is finally, and do a little research on coppers.

 

[Hazelbarn]

Anyone think these tools went with it? Or are they from something else? Washing and fire pokers?!