{"product_id":"chinese-silk-iron-18th-century-reticulated-bronze-open-pan","title":"Chinese Silk Iron 18th Century Reticulated Bronze Open Pan","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAntique Chinese Silk Iron | Qing Dynasty Reticulated Bronze Charcoal Iron\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChinese Silk Iron 18th Century Reticulated Bronze Open Pan\u003c\/strong\u003e is a remarkable decorative object that brings centuries of Chinese history into the home. Once used to smooth delicate silk garments with heated charcoal, this authentic Qing Dynasty silk iron is now admired for its sculptural beauty, rich bronze patina, and extraordinary craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect For:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisplaying as a sculptural object on a bookshelf or console\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing as a unique planter or vessel for preserved moss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHolding a pillar candle or decorative objects\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding an authentic museum-quality antique to a collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStyle It With:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePair this antique Chinese silk iron with pieces from our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/debrahalllifestyle.com\/collections\/vintage-tabletop-decor-office-bookshelf-styling-accents\"\u003eVintage Tabletop Decor, Office \u0026amp; Bookshelf Styling Accents\u003c\/a\u003e collection and layer it with complementary pieces from our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/debrahalllifestyle.com\/collections\/vintage-vases-vessels-antique-pots\"\u003eVintage Vases, Vessels \u0026amp; Antique Pots\u003c\/a\u003e collection for a richly collected display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eantique Chinese silk iron\u003c\/strong\u003e dates to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) and was originally used for pressing fine silk textiles. Rather than placing a heated metal surface directly against delicate fabric, these ingenious tools held hot charcoal inside the bronze pan, allowing garments to be smoothed without scorching the luxurious material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the eighteenth century, particularly throughout the Qianlong period, silk irons evolved from practical household tools into beautifully crafted objects that reflected the artistry of Chinese metalworking. This example features the desirable \u003cstrong\u003ereticulated border\u003c\/strong\u003e, an open pierced rim that served both decorative and functional purposes by allowing heat and smoke from the charcoal to escape more efficiently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the strongest indicators of authenticity is the open socket where the original wooden or bamboo handle was once attached. Because organic materials rarely survive for centuries, the absence of the original handle is common among genuine eighteenth-century examples and reflects the remarkable age of this piece rather than a defect. This handle has its as found remnant wood handle held in loosely by a steel wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, antique Chinese silk irons are appreciated as sculptural works of art. The beautifully aged bronze patina, pierced gallery, and substantial form make this an exceptional decorative object for bookshelves, coffee tables, libraries, or collections of Asian antiques. It also makes a striking planter, candle holder, or vessel for displaying seasonal botanicals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e bronze\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e China\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEra:\u003c\/strong\u003e Qing Dynasty, 1644–1912 (likely 18th century)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10\" L x 6.5\" W x 4\" H, (length is without wood on handle) \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e antique; wear consistent with age and use; beautiful bronze patina and age-related imperfections present (see photos)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e decorative object, planter, candle holder, decorative bowl, collectible Asian antique\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSourcing:\u003c\/strong\u003e hand selected from a collector's estate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesign Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e authentic reticulated bronze silk iron with pierced border, open handle socket, and exceptional historic character dating to the Qing Dynasty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly one available. Once sold, this exact antique will not be restocked. Authentic Chinese silk irons from the Qing Dynasty are increasingly difficult to find and are prized for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and sculptural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Due to the vintage and antique nature of our items, all sales are final. Please carefully review all photographs, read the complete description, and verify measurements before purchasing. Condition details, wear, patina, repairs, and imperfections are disclosed to the best of our ability and are part of the character of antique and vintage goods.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Debra Hall Lifestyle","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53951685558551,"sku":"02600033","price":195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0014\/3559\/8884\/files\/Chinese-Silk-Iron-18th-Century-Reticulated-Bronze-Open-Pan_-Debra-Hall-Lifestyle-343218085.jpg?v=1784255893","url":"https:\/\/debrahalllifestyle.com\/products\/chinese-silk-iron-18th-century-reticulated-bronze-open-pan","provider":"Debra Hall Lifestyle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}