A rustic turned treen dairy cheese mold or strainer bowl, carved from a single block of wood. The circular vessel features a thick, molded rim and a slightly tapered body, with the interior base pierced by several drainage holes.

Utensils of this type were essential components of traditional rural dairies, used to drain whey from cheese curds. The dark, aged patina and wear patterns reflect decades of utilitarian use.

Condition Report & Historical Details

• Subject / Sitter / Source: Dairy cheese mold / strainer bowl
• Period: Victorian (1837–1901)
• Origin: Unknown
• Material / Technique: Turned treen
• Materials: Wood
• Decorative Details: Molded rim, turned foot, pierced drainage holes
• Colour & Surface: Natural aged wood with dark staining, soot marks, and deep patina
• Condition: Significant wear consistent with age and utilitarian use, including surface cracking, minor inactive insect flight holes, and localized staining

History

Treen dairy utensils were widely produced throughout rural Europe and North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. Sycamore and beech were favored for dairy use as they did not impart flavor to the milk or cheese. Such pieces are highly collected today for their rustic aesthetic and the rich, tactile patina developed through generations of daily handling.

Dimensions 6” opening × 3” H