Early 20th-Century French Rustic Wood Iris Bulb Crate - 22½" x 15¼"

This authentic early 20th-century French crate once served a humble but essential purpose: transporting flower bulbs from the fields of provincial France. Handcrafted from slatted wood, it features original stenciled markings, including the word “CROCUS” and bold inventory numbers, offering a poetic glimpse into its agricultural past. The pale blue-grey patina, softened by decades of wear, speaks to years of practical use and lends the piece a soulful, timeworn charm.

These crates were commonly found, stacked high in garden sheds and greenhouses to store spring favorites like irises, tulips, and crocuses. Their open construction allowed for ventilation and drainage, while the stamped numbers ensured orderly handling. Today, those functional details add a layer of character and visual interest, evoking the quiet rhythms of the French countryside.

In a contemporary home, this crate brings rustic authenticity and decorative versatility. Use it in a mudroom or entryway for shoes, firewood, or magazines. In a sunroom or kitchen, fill it with potted herbs or seasonal blooms to evoke the relaxed charm of a Provençal market. Whether used for storage or styled as a centerpiece, it adds texture, story, and a distinctly French touch to any interior.