The Serpent’s Hearth: Victorian Winged Dragon & Vine Fire Tool Stand
£550.00
Description
This 19th-century stand is an exceptional example of narrative ironwork. While most fireside accessories of the era were purely functional, this piece is a sculptural work of art designed for a grand Victorian library or a Gothic Revival drawing room.
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Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
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A Rare Victorian Cast Iron Fire Tool Stand with Winged Serpent & Vine Motif
This 19th-century stand is an exceptional example of narrative ironwork. While most fireside accessories of the era were purely functional, this piece is a sculptural work of art designed for a grand Victorian library or a Gothic Revival drawing room.
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Mythological Iconography: The base of the stem features a beautifully cast winged serpent (or dragon) with outspread wings, acting as the structural guardian of the piece. The serpent’s body transitions seamlessly into a vine-wrapped stem, symbolizing the entwining of nature and myth—a favorite theme of the mid-Victorian era.
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Rococo Influence: The base tray is cast in a wide, flamboyant Rococo shell form, providing a heavy, stable foundation. The cradle at the top features three decorative loops to hold a poker, tongs, and shovel, finished with an ornate finger-loop finial for easy handling.
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Industrial Craftsmanship: Despite its delicate appearance, the stand is cast in solid, high-grade iron. The level of detail in the serpent's scales and the vine's tendrils indicates it was produced by a high-end foundry, likely in the Birmingham or Coalbrookdale tradition.
Condition Report
Excellent antique condition for its age, with minor signs of wear consistent with usage and age. The patina enhances its authentic character.
Measurement
Height: 70 cm / 27.6 inches
Width: 30 cm / 11.8 inches
Depth: 23 cm / 9.1 inches
Weight: 3.4 k.g. / 7.5 lbs
