Bathtubs: Bateau bathers

Reviewed by:
Rosemary Thornton

Back in the mid-1800s, the French aristocracy enjoyed the bateau or "boat" bath. Originals were made of cast iron with an enameled interior; this reproduction is fabricated with aluminum.

An acrylic is bonded to the interior surface for warmth and the exterior can be polished (to prevent tarnishing) or it can be primed and prepared for paint.

Big enough for two, the boat bath is double ended and measures 31" by 71". With the polished exterior, the price is $12,000. Primed, the cost of the tub is $11,200 (March 2005).