Lot 1: Antique Cast Iron Charcoal Box Iron with Wooden Handle and Rooster Latch
A 19th-century style charcoal box iron constructed from cast iron. The body features a pointed prow and a box-like cavity designed to hold hot coals or a pre-heated metal slug. The lower edge of the base is pierced with four semicircular ventilation holes, and the upper rim of the box has a serrated or scalloped edge. A hinged lid is secured at the front by a cast-iron latch shaped as a rooster. The lid is surmounted by an ornate cast-iron handle mount featuring scrollwork and a central medallion with a cross-hatched or pineapple texture. This mount supports a turned wooden grip. The exterior of the iron is finished in black, with significant areas of surface oxidation visible. An orange rectangular adhesive price or inventory label is attached to the centre of the lid, but any text upon it is not legible. No maker’s marks, manufacturer names, or country of origin markings are visible on the exterior surfaces.
Condition report:
The iron exhibits signs of heavy age and use. There is widespread surface oxidation and rust across the cast-iron body, lid, and handle mount (photo 1). The wooden handle shows significant wear, darkening, and loss of original finish (photo 1). Dirt and dust accumulation are present in the recessed areas of the casting and within the box interior. The rooster latch appears intact and functional, though it shows surface pitting consistent with the rest of the metalwork.
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