Description

A very desirable  size as it typical of that which found it’s way into smaller mess boxes and mess equipment, the easiest to keep or carry for the common soldier. Could even easily fit in a haversack or pack. This cannister was well japanned and retains 98% of it’s original finish all except for the cap, now dark with age and wonderful even patina. Looks like it was a bit more heavily lacquered than many of the fancier lightly coated affairs – meant to really be utilitarian as opposed to just decorative. Still the finish has a nice brown tone with original luster still showing here and there. This cannister could be the poster child for the original intent and development of the japanning process. The bottom of the base, which was commonly not coated, has a few places where it dripped over. These thinner spots still have bright tinning visible underneath – the rest of the base is gray with the tinning worn off. A few little nicks on the sides also show bright tinning still in place under the coating. The cap, which lost it’s japanning from constant handling, has no tinning and evidence of the surface rust that is typical of plain tin items which saw use and were exposed. When applied and cured properly and in enough coats, which happened rarely, the process actually could be effective.  Flat pounded over base, one piece body and tapered shoulder with flat soldered side seam, indicative of earlier or smaller local manufacturer. Dome topped pressed cap. A great piece in a relatively rare size – commonly priced as much, if not more, than it’s bigger brothers.