Antique French oval oak harvest Costrel barrel

About this barrel

An antique French oak costrel barrel isn't the same as a standard keg. This oval harvest costrel, listed at $64.20, comes from a tradition of small portable casks that farm workers carried into the fields to hold drinks during the harvest.

What should you check before buying an antique harvest costrel?

The listing doesn't give a condition, so read the description and study every photo. Old wood often has age cracks, worm holes and dried staves, and these affect both its value and how it looks on display.

• Ask for the dimensions and capacity, which the title doesn't give.
• Look for the original stopper or carrying loops.
• Treat it as a collectible, and don't assume it will hold liquid.
• Ask for extra photos of the base and ends if you need them.

Covered by the eBay Money Back Guarantee.