Description
Rare Antique Copper Combination Bath & Shower – 190cm – Possible Hydrotherapy System
An exceptionally unusual antique copper bathtub, measuring an impressive 190cm in length and believed to have been designed as a combined bathing and canopy showering installation.
Unlike conventional antique copper baths, this remarkable example incorporates a distinctively shaped, rounded showering end, with a stepped rim and surviving fixing points that appear to have supported an original shower enclosure.
Of particular interest is the circular perforated fitting set into the floor of the rounded section. The concentric arrangement of holes, together with the surviving pipework beneath the bath, raises the intriguing possibility that it originally incorporated an upward-directed water spray or early hydrotherapy feature.
Such arrangements were used in historic bathing and hydrotherapy installations, although the precise function of this example has yet to be established.
Construction and Original Features
The bath is constructed from substantial copper sheet, with visible formed panels, traditional joined seams and four integrated feet.
The exterior retains a beautiful, naturally aged reddish-brown copper patina, with areas of green verdigris highlighting the original construction and joints.
The interior has a silvery-grey surface finish, possibly a tin electroplate and has traces of calcium build-up which can be cleaned off with soda blasting.
Surviving features include:
- An unusual rounded section, apparently intended for showering
- Original fixing brackets on either side of the bath, possibly associated with a shower curtain framework
- A circular perforated fitting in the floor of the rounded section
- Surviving external pipework and plumbing connections
- Substantial formed copper construction with integrated feet
- Attractive original aged copper surface and verdigris
Restoration and Installation
The bath is offered in unrestored condition, retaining its historic character and original fittings.
The original shower enclosure, shower rose and associated taps are no longer present.
We believe the bath offers an exciting opportunity for sympathetic restoration, potentially incorporating a reconstructed period-style shower curtain framework and antique-style overhead shower fittings.
Any new components would be clearly distinguished from the original bath.
The original plumbing arrangements have not been fully identified or tested. The bath would require specialist inspection, restoration and appropriate plumbing work before being put into service.
Dimensions
Overall length: 190cm
Further dimensions available on request.
A Rare Architectural AntiqueAn extraordinary example of historic copper sanitaryware, combining an elegant sculptural form with unusual and potentially sophisticated bathing features.
Particularly suited to a period property, individually designed bathroom, architectural salvage collection or specialist restoration project.
UK and international delivery can be arranged. Please contact us for further information, photographs or a shipping quotation.
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