Antique 19th Century Brass Chinese Silk Iron With a Wood Handle

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Rare Antique 19th Century Brass Chinese Silk Iron With a Wood Handle. The Pan Iron, also known as the Silk … Read more Rare Antique 19th Century Brass Chinese Silk Iron With a Wood Handle. The Pan Iron, also known as the Silk Iron, was commonly used by the Chinese to iron delicate silks and garments. The Chinese were perhaps the earliest to actually iron clothing, with some records dating back to the 12th century. There was a large population of Chinese living and working in the United States during the mid to late 1800s, and they bought a large number of their tools and customs with them from their homeland, including their ironing devices. The pan irons were used to smooth even the most delicate silk fabrics and were heated by placing either hot sand or charcoal into the vessel, then passing over the fabric in a circular motion.

This iron dates from 1891-1919 based on the type of import stamp on the bottom. It has a raised decoration around the ‘pan’ of Chinese men in various stages of work. The first half of the handle is brass with a stylized face and the other half is wood carved in the shape of a fist. Wood at the end made holding the hot iron easier. The rich color of its patinated finish and its unique historical significance make this piece a perfect conversation starter and a unique decorative object.

Dimensions:
9.5” W x 4” D x 2.75” H

In very good antique condition considering age and history. Zoom in on photos to see any imperfections including some rough spots and loss of finish on the wood fist and the wood handle is a little loose in the socket. See less