Antique Hall Bench and the Painted Pot

Hello people! Would you like to see my lovely antique hall bench? As soon as you enter my house, you'll see this great vintage piece. I'm lucky to have owned this for over 25 years! I believe it's English, but I'm not sure. I got it at an auction and it's been treasured ever since. The bench seat is hinged and there is storage inside. It's held many things over the years---pillows, blankets, toys and games etc.

 Here are some of the nice carved details...

On top of the bench are some pillows and a metal pot I painted. I got that  vintage crewel work pillow at a garage sale. Lots of hard work sold for pennies.. isn't that how it goes?

I had to take the pot outside to get more light. We're in full 'June Gloom' mode in southern California. We probably will get a peek at the sun around 4 pm today.

I've painted this pot before, in fact, I found 3 of these in thrift stores. I think it's made of aluminum. I painted one for my mother and I have another one painted red. I'm not very good at drawing, but I get inspiration on the internet and even trace shapes right off of my computer monitor. That butterfly is one such shape. I find something I like on google images, resize it on my monitor and trace. The flowers and leaves are my own whimsical, doodling style. I prefer my paint and paint brush to get details, not drawing.

Another side of the pot shows flowers, leaves and the distinctive handle painted in greens.

More of my funky painting! Flowers, leaves and stems in multi-colors...

Here's another view of the hall bench and contents. Each side of the hall bench has the original zinc holders. I'm not sure of their purpose. Perhaps for canes and umbrellas? We've used them to throw shoes into and dog toys. Reality is so unromantic. I prefer to imagine that they held Victorian gentleman's canes and  frilly lady's parasols!

Now what do you think I use that beautiful painted pot for? 

 It comes in handy, right by the front door, for dog leashes and bags.

 That's right, a fancy poop bag holder! 

Thanks for stopping by the Sunset Coast. Love all the feedback and share your blog so I can come take a peek!

Hope everyone enjoys their day! 

Have a fancy day!

Cindy 

See where I share:
Knick of time Interiors 
Not Just a Housewife 
A Stroll Thru Life 
Uncommon Slice of Suburbia 
The Style Sisters 
Ivy and Elephants 
Domestically Speaking 
Miss Mustard Seed

French country Cottage
Redoux Interiors 
Funky Junk Interiors 
Mod Vintage Life