I'm intrigued by the construction of it and I'd like to share that here. It seems to be in two principal parts. Each side is directly stamped and shaped with half of the bottom integrated with that pressing. The edges join to each other by overlapping slightly to create the bottle space.
The flat bottom of the two halves is a simple overlap while the curved edges on the outside I have been pressed with a valley and ridge such that each will snap and inter-lock with its opposite member.
Then there seems to be a ring put around both the pouring spout and the smaller air spout. These would have the effect of locking the two parts together.
There are also two lugs attached on either side formed with a simple folding of sheet metal to create a wedge shaped brace as a means of holding a trapezoidal "D" ring for the leather strap.
All of these component parts have subsequently been soldered together, presumably by a tinning process that would have lined the inside of the bidon. It seems rather reminiscent of the French helmet pressings that, as far as I can see, use the same interlocking ridges as a way to bring separate pressings together.
Surely the old pressing dies still exist somewhere and these things could be made again? I can think of no better way to carry ones wine on a picnic.
I will fashion a new cork and wooden stopper, as well as stitch on a covering. I also need to replace the strap with a new one as an extra security against damage to the old which could then be safely stored in a drawer. Pictures of this will follow.
To end here are two photos of the existing strap.
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