How were regency period wine coolers used?

These vessels sat beneath the dining table or sideboard, filled with ice and water to chill wine bottles before they were served to guests. Servants would retrieve bottles directly from the cooler during long formal dinners, keeping the dining table clear of bulky glassware.

Are original metal linings still intact?

Many examples retain their original lead, copper, or zinc liners which protected the timber from melting ice. Some have lost these liners over the decades through heavy use or cleaning. Buyers often check the interior to see whether the original watertight lining survives beneath the lid.

Where should I place a wine cooler today?

They work well as standalone decorative objects in a dining room, often positioned beneath a mirror or large sideboard. Their generous proportions also make them suitable for holding logs by a fireplace. Some collectors utilise open versions as indoor planters or jardinières for large house plants.

How do I spot a true regency piece?

Look for authentic early nineteenth-century construction methods, such as hand-cut dovetails on the carcase and genuine flame mahogany veneers. The presence of classical motifs like paw feet, lion masks, and brass ring handles points directly to the period. Good examples display a deep, warm patina developed over two centuries of careful polishing.