Andiron
Unknown Artist
ca. 1790
Medium
Brass
Dimensions
H. 27 in. (68.6 cm)
Classification
Andiron
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Russell Sage, 1909
Accession Number
10.125.444a
Art Historical Context
This elegant brass andiron, dating to around 1790, stands at an impressive 27 tall, exemplifying the blend of utility and ornament in early American household furnishings. Andirons like this one were essential fireplace accessories, designed to support burning logs while allowing air circulation for efficient fires. Crafted from gleaming brass—a durable and prestigious metal—this piece likely featured decorative motifs typical of the Federal period, such as neoclassical urns or baluster shapes, though specifics remain undocumented due to the unknown maker. In late 18th-century American homes,...