Antique Metalware
Metals have been used for thousands and thousands of years to create furniture, sculptures, candlesticks and cookware. Antique metalware within the home can therefore either be decorative or functional. There are antique metalware pieces made from brass, bronze, copper, iron, and spelter and pewter to name a few to choose from, these materials are some of the most popular antique metalware available.
Antique metalware is normally made from non-precious metals as opposed to gold or silver and you will be able to find pieces from a range of historical periods. A unique insight into decorative influences and practical items used in the household of the time.
History of Metalware
The creation of metal can be traced back to 6000 BC, from the first discovery of metal until 1800 there were only 12 metals discovered, these were gold, silver, copper, lead, mercury, tin, zinc, iron and platinum and antimony, arsenic and bismuth. The first man-made tools were made from copper and therefore there are more antique copper tools than in other metals.
Antique metalware made from copper, lead, tin and iron are likely to be the most widely available. From the Roman period until the mid 19th C there is evidence that brass was used frequently, with the practice of using brass also gradually increasing over time.
Types of Antique Metalware
Antique Copperware
As mentioned copper was a very popular metal and it is easily possible to find antique copper pans, mugs and a variety of cookware. Originally copper was used to make functional items for use in the home but later it was used for more decorative purposes.
Antique Brassware
Antique brassware is a popular category of antique metalware, it is possible to find antique brass kettles and pots, which would have previously been placed over open fires for cooking purposes, making a nice decorative feature in a modern day kitchen. Nice antique metalware pieces are 18th C brass candlesticks and doorknockers.
Antique brass has a soft patina in comparison to new brass; this is a rich warm colour that is formed over time due to usage and handling. Patina is often something desirable in antique brassware and damage to it may depreciate its value. Newer brassware will have a brighter, gold finish.
There are also nice antique brass chandeliers and clocks available, used largely throughout the Victorian and Edwardian periods, antique brassware comes in a variety of styles, pieces with Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences are particularly attractive. Victorian brass candlesticks are a desirable item on the market. Antique brass warming pans and bed frames are also very nice pieces of antique furniture.
Antique Bronzeware
The most famous of antique bronzes is antique Vienna bronzes; collectors particularly desire these. Also antique bronzeware made by Franz Bergman is highly sought after. Antique bronze sculptures are often stamped or signed so you are able to identify their authenticity.
There are a large variety of antique metal pieces to purchase, metalware created from steel and wrought iron will make nice antique outdoor pieces, such as a weather vane or a lantern. It is also possible to find attractive pewter dinnerware and candlesticks. Antique metals have a certain appearance due to oxidization and patina and they will lose their value if this is affected, either altered or removed, it is important to therefore be careful when cleaning.
