Arcade Cast Iron
Antique 16th Century French Gothic Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots
Iron
People Also Browsed
Late 20th Century North American Renaissance Beds and Bed Frames
Mahogany
Antique Late 18th Century Italian Neoclassical Bed Coronas
Wood, Giltwood
Antique 19th Century Chinese Beds and Bed Frames
Gold Leaf
21st Century and Contemporary English Chippendale Beds and Bed Frames
Wood, Paint, Gesso
1990s American French Provincial Beds and Bed Frames
Silk, Upholstery, Wood
Antique 18th Century Indian Spanish Colonial Beds and Bed Frames
Rosewood
Antique 18th Century Indian Beds and Bed Frames
Rosewood
Antique 1820s American Empire Beds and Bed Frames
Cherry, Poplar
Antique 1870s French Urns
Porcelain
Vintage 1950s English Renaissance Beds and Bed Frames
Oak
Antique Early 1900s Anglo Raj Beds and Bed Frames
Teak
Antique 17th Century Portuguese Baroque Beds and Bed Frames
Brass
Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Louis XV Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Bronze
Antique 19th Century French Louis XIV Grandfather Clocks and Longcase Cl...
Ebony, Mahogany
Early 18th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings
Canvas, Oil
Antique Mid-17th Century Baroque Beds and Bed Frames
Mahogany
Recent Sales
Antique Late 19th Century American Balustrades and Fixtures
Iron
Vintage 1910s English Carnival Art
Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières
Iron
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Scientific Instruments
Iron
Antique 18th Century and Earlier French Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots
Iron
Antique 19th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century Carnival Art
Wood
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Toys and Dolls
Iron
Early 20th Century American Late Victorian Primitives
Metal
Antique Early 1900s American Folk Art Toys
Iron
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Scientific Instruments
Aluminum, Chrome, Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1930s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Victorian Collectibles and Curiosities
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Decorative Objects
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Mid-20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
American Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1940s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1950s American Folk Art Animal Sculptures
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron, Tin
American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1940s American Carnival Art
Iron
American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Sculptures
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1940s American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Carnival Art
Sheet Metal
Vintage 1940s American Carnival Art
Vintage 1940s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Brass
Vintage 1940s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Antique Early 1900s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Mid-20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Mid-20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1920s American Victorian Carnival Art
Iron
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1940s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Iron
Vintage 1950s American Folk Art Carnival Art
Vintage 1940s American Primitive Carnival Art
20th Century American Carnival Art
Iron
Finding the Right folk-art for You
Folk art refers to a genre of art that shares the creator’s traditions, offering not just an artistic display but an opportunity to learn about a culture. Vintage, new and antique folk art typically reflects a heritage or location. It can include utilitarian objects and handmade art as diverse as weather vanes, portraiture and paintings, carnival art, quilts and duck decoys.
American folk art is frequently valued because of the traditional skills involved, like weaving, hand-carving wood and even stonework. Many folk artists are self-taught, while some train as apprentices within their community. By using available materials and taking a personal approach to their creations, artists ensure each piece is unique and conveys a story. Native American folk art includes functional objects reflecting their heritage, such as baskets, textiles and wooden pieces.
During the Great Depression, artistic materials in America were hard to come by, so artisans used discarded wood from cigar boxes and shipping crates to make highly stylized, notched pieces — most often picture frames and boxes — that are today sought after by collectors. This folk art style is called tramp art and was popular from roughly 1870 until the 1940s.
Folk art brings vibrant culture and traditions into your home. Browse an extensive collection of folk art on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The difference between iron and cast iron comes down to content. Iron is generally pure iron, a chemical element that is a solid metal at room temperature. Cast iron is a mix of iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus and other elements. Both iron and cast iron can be used to produce furniture, cookware, decorative objects and other items. Generally, cast iron is heavier than iron. Shop an assortment of iron and cast iron pieces on 1stDibs.
- Who invented cast iron?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The name of the person who invented cast iron is unknown. However, anthropologists and archaeologists have determined that the ancient Chinese were the first to develop it. The earliest known examples of cast iron date back to the 6th century B.C. Cast iron production didn't begin in Europe until the 14th century A.D. Shop a collection of cast iron furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
- What are cast iron columns?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Cast iron columns are vertical supports produced out of cast iron, a material made from iron and alloys with a carbon content of more than two percent. During the 19th century, cast iron columns were used in architecture. Today, they primarily function as decorative objects. Shop a range of cast iron columns on 1stDibs.
- Are cast iron columns hollow?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023Whether cast iron columns are hollow depends on the piece. Most cast iron columns are hollow due to the manner of crafting, but some are solid. On 1stDibs, find a selection of columns.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A cast iron fireplace insert is a firebox that fits into an existing fireplace surround. The insert is made of cast iron, a type of iron that is more than 2 percent carbon. Cast iron is highly durable and very resistant to the effects of heat. You'll find a selection of cast iron fireplace inserts on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021Cast iron trivets are used for many things but are especially ideal for slow cooking meat. They can prop up food in Dutch ovens to prevent burning and increase heat distribution.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023Yes, you can generally use cast iron as a planter because the material is durable and sturdy. However, you may need to drill drainage holes in a cast iron piece that wasn't intended to function as a planter to allow excess water to exit the vessel. On 1stDibs, find a selection of cast iron planters.
- Do cast iron Firebacks work?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021Yes, cast iron firebacks are quite sturdy and work really well. As they are made of solid iron, it's a challenge to move and place them. Given that, cast iron firebacks are the best protection for the back wall of the fireplace. Find a variety of firebacks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
To keep a piece made of cast iron from rusting, place it in a cool, dry space with good air circulation.
- How do I hang a cast iron bell?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022How to hang a cast iron bell depends on the style. Some cast iron bells have loops at the top that you can hang from a hook anchored onto your desired mounting surface. Others have brackets or frames that you can secure with mounting screws. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron bells.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Cast iron is stronger than steel.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Cast iron doorstops originated in the late 18th century. Osbourn Dursey invented the first doorstop in 1878. Decorative cast iron stops became popular in the 1920s and remained so throughout World War II. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique cast iron doorstops.
- Do cast iron tables rust?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Yes, cast iron tables can rust. Pieces are more likely to develop rust when exposed to humidity, such as in bathrooms or outdoor living spaces in coastal areas. Wiping surfaces clean regularly and touching up scratches and chips can reduce the risk of rust. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron tables.
- When were cast iron beds made?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Cast iron beds were made starting in the 1850s. These types of beds were handmade until World War I through the use of molds.
- Does cast-iron furniture rust?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Cast iron is frequently used for fireplaces due to its properties. The metal is highly durable, allowing it to hold up to the effects of frequent use. It also readily conducts heat to help warm up interiors. You'll find a variety of cast iron fireplaces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023Cast iron is often used for benches because of its characteristics. Its strength makes it well-suited to support the weight of two or more adults, and its hardness allows it to resist damage due to weather exposure. Shop a range of cast iron benches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is not brittle and will bend rather than break. Wrought ironwork is produced with a hammer and anvil and tends to be more intricate than cast ironwork, which is characterized by repetitive designs that can be carved into a wooden pattern and cast.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Whether cast iron is good for outdoor furniture is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people prefer cast iron due to its strength, durability and timeless Old World charm. On 1stDibs, find a collection of cast iron outdoor furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023To tell if a cast iron doorstop is valuable, always look for original paint. Any that have been repainted or repaired will have diminished in value. You can also use online resources to try and research items, but the best way to find out if a cast iron doorstop is worth anything is to consult a certified appraiser. An experienced professional can evaluate the condition, determine the maker and research the piece to assign an approximate value. On 1stDibs, find a range of doorstops.
Read More
A Giant Wedding Cake Has Us Looking at Portuguese Tiles in a New Light
At Waddesdon Manor, artist Joana Vasconcelos has installed a three-tiered patisserie inspired by the narrative tile work of her homeland. We take a look at the cake sculpture and how Portuguese tiles have been used in architecture from the 17th century to today.
Why Jules Chéret Was the King of the Modern Poster
The streets of fin-de-siècle Paris were set aglow with colorful poster ads, thanks to the printing techniques invented by Jules Chéret. Now, the Milwaukee Art Museum is celebrating this undersung talent in America's first solo show dedicated his exuberant works.
Why the American Flag Has Had So Many Different Star Patterns
Expert Jeff Bridgman explains the history and meaning behind the twinkling constellations that have graced Old Glory.
Peggy Guggenheim Loved Modernism, but She Also Collected Tribal Art
The iconoclastic style setter displayed African and Oceanic art, as well as works by indigenous peoples of the Americas, alongside pieces by such major modernists as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock.
The 13-Star American Flag Had More Variations Than You’d Think
Perfect for July 4th weekend, a new show at Philadelphia's Museum of the American Revolution displays an array of antique red, white and blue flags.
Tramp Art, America’s Most Misunderstood Art Form, Is Trending in Interiors
Designers are beginning to see this enigmatic form of folk art in a whole new light.