A reinforced cargo barrel - heavier iron bands, visible rivets along the joining seams, sturdier than the household cask. The shipping-grade vessel for heavy cargo. Period: multi-era, c. 1500 CE - 1900 CE.
Cargo barrels for heavier or denser contents - nails, shot, dry chemicals, salted provisions for long voyages - received extra reinforcement with riveted iron bands. Standard for Royal Navy stores and trans-Atlantic merchant traffic.
Painting tips
- Staves: warm wood with sepia wash.
- Iron bands: dark steel with edge polish.
- Rivets: bright bare-metal dots, slight gloss.
- Optional faded chalk lot mark on the head.
Historical sources & further reading
- Royal Navy cooperage standards
- Atlantic merchant marine cargo references
⚠ Small parts. Not suitable for children under 14.





