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Collectible Copper By Adene Lucus, owner of Freyia DEKOR
While on a trip to Stockholm sourcing items to bring back to North America the one item I kept coming across was copper. Every seller seemed to have a plentiful supply of copper. There were pots, baking molds, strainers, teapots, and water pitchers. I thought it was unusual that there was so much copper. I noticed that the items were haphazardly tossed in cardboard boxes like there was no value for these antiques. After doing some research about copper in Europe I discovered that in the 17th Century, Sweden had the most copper mines in all of Europe and at the peak Sweden produced 70 percent of all copper in the world. That explained why there was so much copper and why no one seemed to appreciate it, there was an abundance! In the U.S., the largest copper mine is in Utah and other major copper mines are in Arizona, Michigan, New Mexico, and Montana.
Today, all those utilitarian goods have antique value. As of late there has been a resurgence of interest in copper for decorative items. A quick search online for antique copper objects will showcase a range of a $50 copper pot to a $5,000 kettle on the antique and modern furniture website 1stDibs. com. Copper is a collectable and priced accordingly, so if you see a piece you like you may want to consider purchasing it. One of the most sought-after pieces is the copper weathervane selling upwards of $20,000!
Why Copper?
Copper has been used and cherished for around 9,000 years. Pots that are made of copper are ideal heat conductors; the material is durable, hygienic and corrosion resistant. Thanks to the excellent heat conductivity properties, the heat spreads more evenly in copper cookware than in traditional pots and pans. Almost all copper cookware sold commercially is lined with stainless steel, tin, or nickel. Antique pots and pans, which is anything 100 years or older, are still functional but may need to be re-tinned to ensure safe cooking. During that process the interior of the copper pan is coated with a tin lining that bonds to the copper. This will prevent any reaction between copper and acidic food. Lining with stainless steel is another option since it’s much harder wearing than tin and less maintenance.
Copper in the Kitchen
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oman.com
Copper in the kitchen is what we typically envision. From farmhouse sinks, to hammered hood fans, faucets, penny pulls on cabinetry, and shiny copper pendent lights. What’s not to love?? Incorporating copper into the cook space is a natural fit. A set of ultra-polished copper pots and pans on full display or hanging on a pot rack adds warmth to a modern kitchen. Copper has been around for so long it is completely timeless.