Pair of Art Nouveau French firedogs w/ chimera heads 26½"

A superb pair of Art Nouveau wrought iron dog irons or andirons from the early twentieth century.  These iron supports are placed in fireplaces to hold logs above the hearth. Their purpose is twofold: to improve airflow for efficient burning and to prevent logs from rolling forward, ensuring a stable and controlled fire. These decorative and functional elements have been used for centuries in fireplaces.

This pair is decorated with chimera heads and have fabulous arrow feet pointing outwards. The hoops at the top were used to support cooking pots and the vertical hooks on the front were used for cooking meat on a rotisserie (often poultry) using a stone counterweight. A superb find that will complement a large open fireplace. 

 

Note that the missing screws at the top will be replaced prior to dispatch.