Details
Description
A pair of vintage iron fireplace andirons, each fronted by a finely modelled female bust with elaborate upswept hair and …
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A pair of vintage iron fireplace andirons, each fronted by a finely modelled female bust with elaborate upswept hair and pleated drapery. Long, low log supports extend behind the stepped bases, giving the pair a strong architectural presence beside the hearth.
The matching figures face forward from tiered geometric bases. Their narrow faces, high coiffures and fan-like folds of drapery create a theatrical classical-revival character, while the long iron supports behind them reveal their practical purpose.
Raised details catch the warmer tones of the aged surface, contrasting with the darker iron visible through areas of rubbing and oxidation. Designed to support logs above the hearth floor, the pair combines traditional fireplace function with an unusually expressive figurative front.
Design / Maker / History
Fireplace andirons, also known as fire dogs, are used in pairs to raise logs above the hearth floor and allow air to circulate beneath the fire.
The elongated female busts, elaborate hair and pleated dress draw on the classical-revival vocabulary found in decorative metalwork around the turn of the twentieth century. Their stepped bases and strong frontal symmetry give the pair a formal, architectural quality.
The Piece
Object: Pair of fireplace andirons / fire dogs
Approximate date: c. late 19th–early 20th century
Material: Iron
Finish: Aged bronze-toned surface
Colours: Bronze tone and dark brown
Form: Matching female bust fronts on stepped bases with long rear log supports
Notable features: Elaborate upswept hair; pleated drapery; tiered geometric bases; richly aged surface
Maker / designer: Not stated
Country of origin: Spain
Condition
Good vintage condition, with extensive age-related rubbing, oxidation, darkening and losses to the bronze-toned finish. The sculpted details remain clearly legible, and the variations across the surface emphasise the modelling of the faces, hair and drapery. Please refer to the photographs for the full condition.
Measurements
Each andiron:
Width: 10 cm / 3.9 in
Height: 20 cm / 7.9 in
Depth: 41 cm / 16.1 in
See less
- Dimensions
- 3.94ʺW × 16.14ʺD × 7.87ʺH
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Cast Iron
- Condition
- Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Gray
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.