Vintage French 24-Peg Bottle Drying Rack – Galvanised Zinc Hérisson c.1950s

Vintage French 24-Peg Bottle Drying Rack – Galvanised Zinc Hérisson c.1950s

A wonderfully characterful piece of vintage French kitchenalia, this compact galvanised metal bottle drying rack dates from around the mid-20th century, circa 1940s–1960s.

Known in France as an “égouttoir à bouteilles”, these practical racks were used for draining freshly washed glass bottles before they were refilled and reused. They are also sometimes affectionately called a “hérisson”, or hedgehog, thanks to their distinctive arrangement of projecting metal pegs.

This example is a particularly appealing tabletop size, with 24 individual bottle pegs arranged around two circular tiers. Each peg measures approximately 6.5cm long, allowing bottles to be placed upside down to drain while air circulated around them.

Made from galvanised iron or steel with a naturally aged zinc-grey finish, the rack has developed a fabulous authentic patina from years of use. Riveted construction, flat metal bands and individually formed pegs give it the unmistakable look of genuine French utilitarian design.

Today, these racks make wonderfully decorative pieces for a vintage or country kitchen. They can still be used for displaying or drying bottles, but are equally effective for hanging mugs, small pots, dried flowers, kitchen utensils or simply enjoyed as a piece of sculptural industrial-style décor.

Measurements

Approximately:

Diameter: 25cm

Height: 16cm

Length of each peg: 6.5cm

Number of pegs: 24

Condition

Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age and previous use. The galvanised surface has naturally developed areas of mottling, oxidation, discolouration and patina, all of which add to its authentic utilitarian character.

Some of the pegs are slightly irregular in alignment, as would be expected from a practical piece that has been used over many years. All 24 pegs are present.

Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

Why We Love It

There is something rather lovely about an object designed for such an everyday job. Before disposable bottles became commonplace, bottles were washed, dried and reused, and racks like this were simply part of daily life.

Its sculptural “hedgehog” form makes it just as appealing today as a piece of vintage French décor as it once was as a piece of practical kitchen equipment.

A fabulous piece of French social history, vintage kitchenalia and industrial décor.

Circa: 1940s–1960s

Origin: France

Material: Galvanised iron/steel

Style: French vintage / farmhouse / industrial / kitchenalia

As with all our vintage and antique pieces, this item shows signs of age and previous use. We describe our items to the best of our knowledge and aim to show their condition accurately in the photographs. Colours may vary slightly depending on screen settings.