Pot racks are actually a fundamental part of the kitchen for hundreds of years. For less affluent families, they were a way of maximizing storage space. For the wealthy, they were a way of organizing entire rooms full of cooking utensils. Examples of pot racks have been located dating back to the 15th century, although it wouldn’t be unexpected to learn they were in use before now.
Originally, pot racks could have simply been hooks hanging from the ceiling or wall. However, as time trickled by and it became possible to expend time decorating even the spaces used primarily by servants, such as kitchens, pot racks became decorative and also functional pieces.
There are various different styles of antique pot racks that fall into two broad categories: wall racks and hanging pot racks. While the hanging pot rack is the style most traditionally thought of today, wall racks can create a unique statement.
Wall racks were very popular in large homes that may devote entire rooms to cooking utensils. From this beginning, their use expanded to feature kitchens of moderately sized houses that needed to way to not only store pots but to show them as well. The antique wall rack typically is a board, sometimes embellished, ad fitted with hooks. The board is affixed to the wall, and pots hang on display there. Some wall racks have a metal board, but a majority are made of a wooden board affixed with metal hooks.
Hanging pot racks come in quite a few styles. Some were originally designed as pot racks and typically exhibit a sturdy metal or, occasionally, wood base that hooks hang. Others are more eclectic in feel due to the fact that, at some time during their storied existence, they were converted from chandeliers, fireplace grates, or other household furnishings. However, each makes a commanding statement when gleaming pots hang from it in the center of a kitchen.
Wall racks typically work best in kitchens designed to have a country or cottage feel. Because of their wood finishes, and simple embellishments, most wall racks embody a style most suited for kitchens with a rustic design. The exception to this are metal wall racks, which can work well in a modern kitchen design if they are made of metal that has not yet oxidized greatly.
By contrast, antique hanging pot racks can work with a multitude of kitchen styles. Pieces exhibiting oxidized metal and intricate detailing can create a statement in a modern, stainless steel kitchen or a country hearth. Converted pot racks made from chandeliers, fireplace grates, and other furnishings are a very good way to make a statement in a monochromatic or otherwise simple space.
No matter the type, an antique pot rack can establish a bold statement in any kitchen and provide dinner guests with an exceptional conversation piece.