Decorative Cast Iron

Cast iron flourished during the 19th century in an amazing variety of forms, often of extreme richness of design. This volume surveys cast iron decoration worldwide in over 500 illustrations - specially taken photographs of surviving work supported by reproductions of pattern books and drawings. All national variations are covered, from Victorian Brighton to New Orleans, from Paris and Lisbon to the relics of colonial empire in South Africa, India, Tahiti and Mexico. The author details its relationship to architecture and its aesthetic contribution to buildings.

"Most of Australia's towns and cities sprang up at the height of the cast iron era - their development also coinciding with Australia's lavish gold boom period. The verandah - so suited to cast iron decoration-was the perfect architectural solution to the sunny Antipodean climate, and many beautiful cast iron-decorated terraces, villas and hotels bear testimony to this golden era of Australian history."--BOOK JACKET.

Magnificent study by expert on age-old craft provides a spirited overview. 140 illustrations include grilles, doors, and gates; stair railings and balustrades; small handles, hinges, door-knockers, and keyhole plates; Elizabethan-era firedogs; weather vanes; much more, many never catalogued before. Rich source of inspiration, royalty-free graphics, information.

Drawn from a rare 1924 source by a noted scholar, over 4,500 outstanding examples of antique ironwork run the gamut from door knockers and grilles to jewelry and religious symbols.

A pictorial examination of cast iron in New Orleans. Cast iron artistry remains an iconic characteristic of New Orleans, familiar to both locals and visitors alike. Beginning with the origins of cast iron, this pictorial study follows its evolution into contemporary times. Ornate illustrations depict the various patterns of cast iron that have been used over the years while photographs portray examples of the artistry throughout the city.

This volume covers both wrought and cast ironwork, containing comprehensive information on the techniques and processes involved. Exploring topics as diverse as gates and railings, jewellery and lighting, the staircase, the hearth, ecclesiastical ironwork and the use of colour on iron, thematic features highlight some of the designs created to embellish interiors and exteriors through the ages. Illustrations are taken from many major collections, especially those of the Victoria and Albert Museum.