Pair of Hand-Wrought Iron Serpent Andirons, Early 20th Century

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They stopped us mid-stride—the way only true originals can.
This pair of early–mid 20th century hand-wrought iron andirons—possibly French, possibly … Read more They stopped us mid-stride—the way only true originals can.
This pair of early–mid 20th century hand-wrought iron andirons—possibly French, possibly American—feel less like hearth tools and more like declarations. Modernist in spirit yet deeply rooted in folk instinct, each one is entirely unique. A single round iron rod rises with muscular simplicity before coiling at the top into a serpent. The snakes arc outward, heads extending boldly into the room, mouths parted to reveal tiny, painstakingly wrought teeth.

There is something deliciously theatrical about them. Protective. Slightly dangerous. As if they’ve slithered from some blacksmith’s imagination straight into your firelight.

Set beside a blaze, their silhouettes flicker and lengthen, the curves coming alive against flame. Even unlit, they hold the hearth with sculptural authority.

They are not polite accessories. They are conversation starters. Guardians. Folk art with a pulse. And once they take their position by the fire, nothing else in the room will dare compete. See less