Ultra rare Bradley and Hubbard Cast Iron figural Phoenix andirons c. 1880 - 1890 (possibly earlier). A rare museum quality pair of fire irons and a fabulous example of American Ironwork. The detail and execution are exceptional as noted in the face, beautifully sweeping body, clawed feet etc. The mythical Phoenix rising from the ashes is an age old expression representing overcoming adversity and rising above defeat. Originating from Egyptian mythology the Phoenix lived in the desert for 500 years and then consumed itself by fire, later to rise renewed from its ashes. What better pieces to have in a fireplace, with flames lighting these sculptural works of art. This wonderful pair come from a San Francisco estate where they may have been original fireplace furnishing since the house was built in the late 19th century. Each andiron is signed on the lower part of the birds neck with a raised "B&H" logo. Truly an exceptional decorative accent all year round and is guaranteed to be a rare conversation piece for the Aesthetic, Arts and Crafts, Mission, Gothic, Stickley, Victorian or Orientalists home. CONDITION: They are beautifully perserved and in excellent condition. There are no breaks or repairs, and they do not look to have been repainted. If so, it would have been a very, very long time ago. There is only a little age and use appropriate rusting on the feet, birds crest and of course the log rests which can be cleaned if so desired, but in no way affect this dramatic pair in any way. There are a few small specks of white paint which can easily be removed.
SIZE: They are a monumental 20 1/2 inches tall (to the top of the birds crest), 12 inches wide (from foot to foot), and about 20 inches deep (from the front of the bird to the back of the log-rest). They are solid iron and as you can imagine, are quite heavy. Each one weighs 14-15 lbs. for a total of 28 - 30 lbs. for the pair.
Buyer responsibilities: While I do my best to describe any potential flaws with equal attention to its attributes, please use the zoom feature to examine the item to make a determination if this meets your standards for vintage and antique items being offered. Email should you have any questions or require more information.
Andrea, your store is a wonderful treasure trove and your knowledge and class are of a scholarly collector.
I am a university research professor with an eye for detail. I have never seen any vendor with your level of exquisite scholarship. Just like your fine objets d'art, your descriptions are crafted with masterful finesse; it is such a pleasure reading them and it is also a great learning experience. Thanks again! Patrick
Deco Deva
Proprietor
Downsizing was inevitable and I've done it several times already. This is the big one, and I am still unboxing treasures retrieved from storage after decades.
All pieces are one of a kind handpicked by yours truly over 40 years to add texture, style and story to your authentic style.
My collecting story starts after watching Astaire and Rogers float across a dance floor as a young girl, I have loved art deco design, art, fashion and jewelry. So bold and beautiful, and so different from anything that came before it. Art deco changed social and design sensibilities forever. A lifetime collector of high quality antiques and vintage, I started by making contacts, researching and learning. Picking the best of the best, I live with art deco and vintage decor and used to wear the fashions of the day. To say that I feel in love is an understatement. I reveled in the fact that I was able to reflect my unique style and sensibilities with a marriage of old and new.
Since I was in my teens I have bought what pleases me, what I find beautiful and unique, and the things that speak to me on a creative level. I hope that you can see and feel the passion and love that I feel for antiques and vintage pieces and share with you. You will find art deco, collectible and vintage fine art paintings, original illustrations and magazine covers, home decor, marble, alabaster and metal lamps, nude flapper table lamps, sterling silver decorative accents and tableware for the home and entertaining, designer and estate jewelry and fine vintage watches in my shop.