Before the advent of washing machines, monolithic pieces of limestone such as this one were used as wash basins. Known as a lavoir, this double-sloped trough would have been used in a French settlement (this one is from Dijon) as early as 1800. Dirty wares were scrubbed with soap on the slanted platform, with the suds flowing into the large basin. Typically, there is only one scrubbing platform, but ours has two, possibly indicating that it was a communal lavoir. Hand-carved from a single block of limestone, the trough is full of character, which is augmented by a mottling of white, black, light gray, and umber, which includes some areas with lichen buildup. The lavoir has a drain hole on one of the sides, which allows the trough to be used as a large rustic planter. It would also make a unique fountain basin (although the drain hole would need to be sealed), in particular with a vertical jet.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Minor nicks and losses coupled with undulating edges from original carving give the trough a rough texture. Light interior buildup. Very light age separations. Some accumulation of lichen.