Pot racks appear to have been a crucial 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 containing cooking utensils. Types of pot racks have been discovered dating back to the 15th century, although it would not be unexpected to see they were in use before this time.
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, like kitchens, pot racks became decorative and also functional pieces.
There are various different kinds of antique pot racks that fall into two broad categories: wall racks and hanging pot racks. Even though the hanging pot rack is the style most traditionally thought of today, wall racks can create a unique statement.
Wall racks were common in large homes which can devote entire rooms to cooking utensils. From this beginning, their use expanded to incorporate 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 include a metal board, but a majority are made of a wooden board affixed with metal hooks.
Hanging pot racks come in numerous types of styles. Some were originally designed as pot racks and typically exhibit a sturdy metal or, occasionally, wood base where hooks hang. Others are more eclectic in feel owing to the fact that, at some point throughout 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 many kitchen styles. Pieces exhibiting oxidized metal and intricate detailing can make a statement in a modern, stainless steel kitchen or a country hearth. Converted pot racks made from chandeliers, fireplace grates, and other furnishings are an excellent way to make a statement in a monochromatic or otherwise simple space.
No matter the type, an antique pot rack could easily create a bold statement in any kitchen and provide dinner guests with an exceptional conversation piece.