£550.00
This 19th-century stand is a masterful piece of heavy casting, likely originating from one of the great British foundries of the mid-Victorian period. It serves as a decorative anchor for the fireplace, designed to hold the heavy brass or steel tools used to manage a coal or wood fire.
Artistry in Iron: The base tray features a deeply molded relief of a seated cherub (or putto), framed by neoclassical scrolls and a laurel wreath. This specific iconography was often used to signify warmth and domestic protection, making it the perfect guardian for the family hearth.
Architectural Form: The slender, vertical stem is punctuated by ornate balusters and leads to a three-point circular cradle, designed to hold tongs, a poker, and a shovel. The top is finished with a pierced foliate finial, allowing for easy repositioning.
Material & Patina: Cast in solid iron and weighing a stable 3.8 kg, the piece has developed a magnificent "Old Iron" patina—a dark, matte charcoal finish with subtle hints of age that only genuine mid-Victorian pieces possess.
Condition Report
Excellent condition, showcasing a beautiful natural aged patina that adds a touch of character and charm.
Height: 67 cm / 26.4 inches
Width: 26 cm / 10.2 inches
Depth: 24 cm / 9.4 inches
Weight: 3.8 k.g. / 8.4 Ibs