French Antique 18th Century Limestone Trough

A small French antique limestone trough from the 18th century, low and roughly circular, with a thick irregular rim and a deep eroded notch along one edge that gives the plain form its character. The stone is cool gray and pale ash with warm sand coming through, and thick patches of moss and green staining spread across the exterior. The surface is pitted and bumpy and catches the light.

It measures 31 1/2 inches across and 12 1/2 inches high; the interior is about 26 inches across and 8 1/2 inches deep. That is enough soil for agave, low box, herbs or grasses, and the piece is small enough to go through a garden gate. It is French, 18th century, as found.

Set it at the crossing of two garden paths as a pause, in a conservatory or orangery where the moss can stay damp, or beside an entry door as a low limestone trough planted with a single agave. Lime plaster, aged oak, river stones and dark iron all suit its cool tones. This stone trough is in our yard in Marina Del Rey; come and see it, or ask us for more photographs and a price.