{"product_id":"pair-of-monumental-american-figural-cast-iron-andirons-american-circa-1880-1910","title":"Pair of Monumental American Figural Cast Iron Andirons American, circa 1880–1910","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e16 1\/2 in. high x 18 in. deep\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn exceptional and highly unusual pair of late 19th century American cast iron andirons fashioned as seated figural forms of remarkable folk art character. Each figure is boldly modeled with oversized head, deeply expressive facial features, broad smile, exaggerated cheeks, and simplified clothing, creating a sculptural presence that transcends their original utilitarian function as hearth furnishings.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCast in heavy iron and retaining their original forged billet backs, the figures display the wonderfully naïve and hand-modeled qualities sought by collectors of American folk art and vernacular decorative arts. The asymmetrical facial features, softly defined jackets, exaggerated proportions, and almost whimsical expressions give the pair a striking personality rarely encountered in architectural ironwork of the period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe untouched surface is particularly appealing, exhibiting generations of natural oxidation, deep brown-black patination, and accumulated hearth wear that beautifully accentuates the sculptural modeling. Viewed from any angle, the figures possess a powerful silhouette and an almost carved appearance, blurring the line between functional fireplace equipment and freestanding folk sculpture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLarge in scale and visually commanding, these andirons stand among the more memorable examples of late 19th century American figural hearth furnishings. Their combination of sculptural strength, folk-art sensibility, architectural significance, and survival with original billet backs intact makes them an outstanding decorative statement and an increasingly scarce form in today’s market.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition: Retaining an untouched dry oxidized surface with expected wear, pitting, and oxidation consistent with age and use. Original forged billet backs present. No significant structural issues observed. Surface irregularities, casting flaws, and wear are consistent with period manufacture and contribute to the exceptional folk character of the pair.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Folkism Antiques LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45357287899245,"sku":null,"price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0658\/1957\/4381\/files\/3DFD9D92-64BA-44DA-B1CB-3F5605B54697.jpg?v=1781968322","url":"https:\/\/folkismantiques.com\/products\/pair-of-monumental-american-figural-cast-iron-andirons-american-circa-1880-1910","provider":"Folkism Antiques LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}