General Auction of 1046 Lots inc. Antique Enamelled Signs, Vintage Gaming Consoles, G-Plan, Art, Silver & Gold, Wedgewood, Doulton, Many Tools, White Goods, Georgian & Victorian Furniture etc.
Lot 543: British Petroleum Co. Ltd. BP Motor Spirit 2-Gallon Petrol Can
A vintage 2-gallon motor spirit can produced for the British Petroleum Co. Ltd. The body is constructed from tinplate steel and features embossed lettering on the side panels reading MOTOR BP SPIRIT. The top surface near the handle contains an embossed oval mark with the company details BRITISH PETROLEUM CO LTD, BRITANNIC HOUSE, MOORGATE LONDON EC2. This address corresponds to the company headquarters from 1924. The lower edge of the top surface is embossed with the warning HIGHLY INFLAMMABLE. The can is fitted with a brass screw cap embossed with the SHELL brand name, representing a period-correct but non-matching replacement common for the era. A lot sticker from a previous sale (Lot 543) is adhered to the upper corner.
25cm x 15cm x 30cm.
Condition report:
The item is in an unrestored, as found state. There is heavy surface oxidation and corrosion throughout the body, handle, and base. Trace amounts of the original red paint are visible under the rust. Minor dents and surface abrasions are present, consistent with age and industrial service. The handle remains firmly attached and the brass cap unscrews freely.
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