Scarce Cantel Patent Canteen / SOLD

Description

Scarce Cantel Patent Canteen 

A seldom seen, early war specimen of a Federal canteen constructed of molded leather. Lazare Cantel, a New York City leather hat case and trunk maker, patented this canteen example in October 1862. This specimen is a metal-lined, leather molded, “improved canteen” and measures 9″ high x 7″ wide x 1¾” deep. Canteen is made of two molded leather shells, each lined on the inside with a metal foil material and then secured together with fifty-two, small copper rivets in place around the outside edge of the piece. The canteen exhibits a pleasing dark, chocolate-brown leather and shows two upper shell extensions that flank the strong pewter spout. Both extensions are pierced with corresponding diagonal, 1″ long rectangular slits and framed with narrow brass mounts on one side to secure the canteen’s strap.

The leather is in excellent condition with a smooth, hard surface and no crazing.  

A very rare and interesting example of a non-regulation Union canteen of the Civil War. 

Inventory Number: CAN 214