An unusual vintage nutcracker combining a substantial brass screw mechanism with a generously proportioned turned oak bowl. The handle takes the form of a traditional ship’s wheel, giving the piece a distinctive nautical character.
A nut is placed between the jaws and cracked by gradually turning the wheel, while the surrounding bowl provides space for whole nuts and catches the discarded shells. The mellow colour of the oak and the naturally aged brass patina make this both a practical piece of vintage kitchenalia and an appealing decorative object for a kitchen, bar, dining room or study.
This piece comes from the contents of a historic Portuguese manor house. It is presented in good vintage condition for its age, with surface wear and patination consistent with use. The wooden bowl has several small age-related cracks and appears to have undergone an earlier repair or restoration. One of the small handles or bars around the ship’s wheel is missing. These points are visible in the photographs and have been reflected in the price.
Estimated period: 1950s–1960s
Materials: Brass and turned oak
Diameter: 22 cm
Height: 16 cm
Weight: 0.985 kg
Due to its age and previous restoration, gentle occasional use or decorative display is recommended.
