Choose the perfect wine cooler for your hot summer days
17 June 2022 Wine coolers (not to be confused with the alcoholic drink of the same name) are popular items within the antique furniture market.
This pair of George III silver wine coolers by William Frisbee were luxury items in their day and have a long and illustrious provenance. They went under the hammer at Wolley & Wallis where they had an estimate of £10,000-15,000.
They became widely used from the 18th century onward for chilling wine before use at the dining table. These were only for use by the very wealthy, as bottled wine was very expensive.
Free-standing examples made of wood – oak or mahogany – often feature brass or gilt decorative bands.
Wine coolers made for serving from the table were mostly silver although ceramic examples also exist.
This unusual pair of Mason’s ironstone wine coolers – which could also be used as jardinieres – date to c.1820 and had an estimate of £200-300 at Bellmans.
Elegant Georgian wine coolers in good condition are also particular sought after – see above.
On the lookout for something a little different? This Geo V hallmarked sterling Irish silver two-handled wine cooler had a band of Celtic strapwork with a central roundel. Made by Wakely & Wheeler, Dublin 1922, it was offered with an estimate of £600-800 at Ryedale Auctioneers.
Today, there are plenty of different examples to find at auction, including newer pieces.
A more modern pair of wine coolers is seen here, a 20th century French set offered with an estimate of £400-600 at Dreweatts.