A large and beautiful Chinese Shao Lin well bucket with associated stand, made from staves of hardwood with iron banding and a substantial wooden handle with iron ring. The bucket has a shaped bottom so needs the stand to stay upright.Although I have described this as a well bucket of the type traditionally used by Shaolin monks, I have also seen buckets of similar design described as rice buckets. I’m not quite sure why either a water or rice bucket would benefit from the shaped bottom as it means it can’t stand upright on its own, but it is certainly an attractive design. I think it would be ideal for storing logs near the fireplace, or just as a decorative item, perhaps filled with dried flowers. I think the stand is more recent but it suits the bucket well. We believe the bucket dates from the 19th century, though are not sure of an exact date.Condition: There are some metal strap repairs to the bucket, and various areas of wear in accordance with age and use. It is go...