This is an antique toleware can used for cream or milk during the 1800s. It features a primitive hand painted gold motif and floral design applied over a black lacquer finish. Such Japanning was a common practice in 19th century toleware and was used to imitate the expensive East Asian lacquerwork of the time. It is often associated with Pennsylvania Dutch items. The dents, rust and chipping are a result of its honest usage through the centuries and are a testament to its authenticity.