A charming graduated set of four French antique bentwood drum sieves (tamis), dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. Each sieve features a circular hoop crafted from steam-bent wood, secured at the overlapping seam with wire staples, and fitted with a fine wire mesh screen. These utilitarian objects showcase wonderful rustic patination and honest craftsmanship.

Historical & Style Details

• Period: Early 20th Century
• Origin: France
• Material / Technique: Steam-bent wood hoop construction, woven wire mesh screen, wire staple fasteners
• Materials: Wood, wire mesh, metal staples
• Markings: Handwritten in pencil "No 60" on the outer hoop of one sieve, indicating mesh size
• Condition: Wear consistent with age and utilitarian use, including oxidation to the wire mesh, minor splits to the wood hoops, and rich surface patination

History

Drum sieves, known in France as *tamis*, have been essential culinary and agricultural tools for centuries, used to sift flour, strain purees, or separate grain. The handwritten 'No 60' denotes a highly refined mesh size, typically reserved for sifting fine pastry flour. These utilitarian objects are highly sought after today for their rustic aesthetic and sculptural appeal in country house and farmhouse kitchen interiors.