Martha's Attic

I just love the detail on this ice bucket.  I have not found another like it while searching the internet.  It would be wonderful for a wedding or anniversary.  There is a perfect spot on both sides for engraving. This Champagne ice bucket is available here .

I have been researching the item pictured in the last post. While I was looking for something else I found some similiar decorative items that were spice boxes.  Some of these were used in Jewish Havdalah ceremonies.  The role of the spice box is to contain the pleasant fragrant spices that are sniffed to console and invigorate our souls, used in weekly rituals.  They are also called etrog or esrog boxes.  Some families have traditional mixes they have handed down over time.  So, I now think I know what it is but I still haven't found others made by the same company. So the search continues........

I found this at the market this weekend. The man I purchased it from was trying to tell me something about spices.  I don't know if he was serious or not.  I have absolutely no idea what it was used for. But I just love the detail on it.  There are elves or cherubs riding goats on the bowl area, along with grape vines.  The pole has a vine and leaves, you raise the ladder like piece on the pole to raise and move the cover.  It's just so unusual.  There are some pieces missing, some of the leaves are missing from the lid, and something from the top of the pole is missing.  It was made by the Rockford Silver Plate Co., guessing late 1800's, early 1900's.  If you have any idea, or want to make a guess please let me know what you think it was used for!