March timed auction
Lot 399: An Assortment of Early 20th Century Petroliana including Two Pratts Petrol Cans and Two Oil Measures
This lot comprises two 2-gallon motor spirit cans and two oil pourer measures. The petrol cans are of the rectangular pattern associated with the British military Vickers machine gun water condenser, a design widely adopted for commercial fuel distribution in the early 20th century. Both cans feature brass screw-top filler caps embossed with the Pratts brand name. The red-painted can is embossed on the front face with the text Petrol Spirit and Highly Inflammable. The second can is finished in black. The assortment also includes two oil measures: a larger yellow-painted example with a fixed side handle and tall pouring spout, and a smaller silver-toned measure. These items are characteristic of UK garage and workshop equipment from the 1910s through to the mid-20th century.
Petrol cans: approx. 12 x 10 x 6 inches
Oil measures: quart and pint capacities.
Condition report:
All items are in as found condition. The red petrol can shows significant paint loss, surface oxidation, and general grime. The black can exhibits heavy wear and evidence of potential historic repainting. Both cans retain their original brass caps. The yellow oil measure shows substantial paint chipping and surface rust where the metal is exposed. The silver-toned measure appears in relatively better condition with less surface corrosion. Modern retail price stickers are present on all items.
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