Here we have a lovely example of a Victorian Hot Water can that's developed the most wonderful surface patina and colour. These household cans would've been used by the maid/housekeeper to carry hot water to the bedrooms/bathrooms and it's distinguishable from a watering can by the closing lid (to stop hot water splashing when being carried) and with the extra insulating sections of metal on the two carrying handles to help minimise heat transfer.

 

Originally, this particular example would probably have been painted with a wood/graining effect (toleware) but this has largely worn away, but with some waxing the remaining paint shows as a lovely rich umber that blends well with the bare metal surface... The can remains good and sturdy and could be used as a watering can. The spout looks to be missing it's end section that would have probably carried on at 45 degrees to form a horizontal section, but it still displays/functions well...

 

The can measures 25cm high to the top of the main body and 40cm to the top of the upper handle, it's 20cm side to side and 39cm front to back.