Pair of Important French Gothic Cast Iron Fireplace Chenets, 16th Century

Description

These important Gothic cast iron fireplace chenets are close to 500 years old. Sometimes called fire dogs or andirons, chenets … more These important Gothic cast iron fireplace chenets are close to 500 years old. Sometimes called fire dogs or andirons, chenets are fireplace accessories designed to elevate firewood. This pair, which was produced in France in the 1500’s, measures almost 29 inches tall. The tops of each base stand at six and a half inches tall, allowing ample airflow beneath the wood.

Each chenet has a half-octagonal shaft adorned with a repeating geometric pattern resembling imbricated lozenges. At the base of the neck is a French style coat of arms emblazoned with a cross moline with circled ends. Beneath the heraldic element is a spired lancet with trefoil cusping, reminiscent of Gothic architecture. The motifs are surrounded by a ridged edge that mirrors the arcade shape of the feet. Our pair of Gothic cast iron chenets can be used with any style fireplace mantel. They were recently cleaned and waxed before shipping from France. A pair of French andirons with this scale, great age, condition, and attractive style is a rare find. less