What is the difference between iron and cast iron?

The difference between iron and cast iron comes down to content. Iron is generally pure iron, a chemical element that is a solid metal at room temperature. Cast iron is a mix of iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus and other elements. Both iron and cast iron can be used to produce furniture, cookware, decorative objects and other items. Generally, cast iron is heavier than iron. Shop an assortment of iron and cast iron pieces on 1stDibs.

Who invented cast iron?

The name of the person who invented cast iron is unknown. However, anthropologists and archaeologists have determined that the ancient Chinese were the first to develop it. The earliest known examples of cast iron date back to the 6th century B.C. Cast iron production didn't begin in Europe until the 14th century A.D. Shop a collection of cast iron furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

What are cast iron columns?

Cast iron columns are vertical supports produced out of cast iron, a material made from iron and alloys with a carbon content of more than two percent. During the 19th century, cast iron columns were used in architecture. Today, they primarily function as decorative objects. Shop a range of cast iron columns on 1stDibs.

Are cast iron columns hollow?

Whether cast iron columns are hollow depends on the piece. Most cast iron columns are hollow due to the manner of crafting, but some are solid. On 1stDibs, find a selection of columns.

Can I use cast iron as a planter?

Yes, you can generally use cast iron as a planter because the material is durable and sturdy. However, you may need to drill drainage holes in a cast iron piece that wasn't intended to function as a planter to allow excess water to exit the vessel. On 1stDibs, find a selection of cast iron planters.

Do cast iron tables rust?

Yes, cast iron tables can rust. Pieces are more likely to develop rust when exposed to humidity, such as in bathrooms or outdoor living spaces in coastal areas. Wiping surfaces clean regularly and touching up scratches and chips can reduce the risk of rust. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron tables.

Do cast iron Firebacks work?

Yes, cast iron firebacks are quite sturdy and work really well. As they are made of solid iron, it's a challenge to move and place them. Given that, cast iron firebacks are the best protection for the back wall of the fireplace. Find a variety of firebacks on 1stDibs.

How do I hang a cast iron bell?

How to hang a cast iron bell depends on the style. Some cast iron bells have loops at the top that you can hang from a hook anchored onto your desired mounting surface. Others have brackets or frames that you can secure with mounting screws. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron bells.

How do I keep cast iron from rusting?

To keep a piece made of cast iron from rusting, place it in a cool, dry space with good air circulation.

When were cast iron doorstops made?

Cast iron doorstops originated in the late 18th century. Osbourn Dursey invented the first doorstop in 1878. Decorative cast iron stops became popular in the 1920s and remained so throughout World War II. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique cast iron doorstops.

Is cast iron stronger than steel?

Cast iron is stronger than steel.

What is a cast iron fireplace insert?

A cast iron fireplace insert is a firebox that fits into an existing fireplace surround. The insert is made of cast iron, a type of iron that is more than 2 percent carbon. Cast iron is highly durable and very resistant to the effects of heat. You'll find a selection of cast iron fireplace inserts on 1stDibs.

What are cast iron trivets used for?

Cast iron trivets are used for many things but are especially ideal for slow cooking meat. They can prop up food in Dutch ovens to prevent burning and increase heat distribution.

Does cast-iron furniture rust?

Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.

Why is cast iron used for fireplaces?

Cast iron is frequently used for fireplaces due to its properties. The metal is highly durable, allowing it to hold up to the effects of frequent use. It also readily conducts heat to help warm up interiors. You'll find a variety of cast iron fireplaces on 1stDibs.

Why is cast iron used for benches?

Cast iron is often used for benches because of its characteristics. Its strength makes it well-suited to support the weight of two or more adults, and its hardness allows it to resist damage due to weather exposure. Shop a range of cast iron benches on 1stDibs.

When were cast iron beds made?

Cast iron beds were made starting in the 1850s. These types of beds were handmade until World War I through the use of molds.

How can you tell the difference between cast iron and wrought iron?

Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is not brittle and will bend rather than break. Wrought ironwork is produced with a hammer and anvil and tends to be more intricate than cast ironwork, which is characterized by repetitive designs that can be carved into a wooden pattern and cast.

Do cast iron umbrella stands rust?

Yes, cast iron umbrella stands and anything made of cast iron can rust. Keeping your cast iron umbrella stand away from moisture and humidity is the best way to keep it from rusting. However, because it is designed to hold wet umbrellas that may be impractical. Some people like to paint cast iron to protect it from rusting. You’ll find a variety of cast iron and other umbrella stands from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Does cast iron garden furniture last?

Whether cast iron garden furniture lasts depends on the quality of the pieces and how well you care for and maintain them over time. Many people choose cast iron, aluminum, wicker or rattan garden furniture for their outdoor patio sets. Shop an assortment of garden furniture on 1stDibs.

Cast Iron Cauldron

Cauldron Planter

Antique Copper Cauldron

Spanish Cast Iron Cauldron Kitchen Pot Ice Bucket

$1,518

H 14.18 in W 11.82 in D 11.42 in

Spanish Cast Iron Cauldron Kitchen Pot Ice Bucket

Located in Barcelona, ES

Cast iron cauldron with unmatching Lid from Galicia at the northern part of Spain, circa 1940s Made

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Rustic Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Iron

Large Verdigris Copper Green Painted Cast Iron Cauldron Garden Planter Pot

$2,069

H 18.5 in Dm 30 in

Large Verdigris Copper Green Painted Cast Iron Cauldron Garden Planter Pot

Located in Llanbrynmair, GB

A Large Verdigris Green Painted Cast Iron Cauldron Garden Planter Pot of superb character, perfect

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Large-Scale 4ft Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Planter Pot with Enamelled Verdigris

$6,757

H 28.5 in Dm 46.5 in

Large-Scale 4ft Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Planter Pot with Enamelled Verdigris

Located in Llanbrynmair, GB

Transform your garden or interior space with this stunning Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Planter Pot

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Rustic Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

19th Century Cast Iron Cauldron or Kettle, Continental circa 1830

$780Sale Price|20% Off

H 9.75 in Dm 11.5 in

19th Century Cast Iron Cauldron or Kettle, Continental circa 1830

Located in Ottawa, Ontario

The seamed body of bellied form encircled by two bands of raised mouldings, rising to a flaring rim and retaining its original swing handle, the underside showing casting / foundry m...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century European Rustic Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Iron

Cast Iron Pot or Cauldron on Three Lets with Handle

$475

H 8.25 in Dm 12.5 in

Cast Iron Pot or Cauldron on Three Lets with Handle

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A heavy, 20 Pound, cast iron Cauldron with fitted lid, on three feet with a handle. The piece is

Category

Early 20th Century Rustic Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Metal, Iron

Spanish Folk Hand-Painted Ice Bucket or Wine Champagne Cooler

$1,311Sale Price|20% Off

H 12.41 in Dm 10.63 in

Spanish Folk Hand-Painted Ice Bucket or Wine Champagne Cooler

Located in Barcelona, ES

Spanish Folk Hand-Painted Ice Bucket Kitchen Pot Cauldron in Cast Iron Popular cast iron cauldron

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Folk Art Barware

Materials

Iron

19th Century Cast Iron Handled Cauldron with Stand

$1,295

H 29 in W 11.5 in D 11.5 in

19th Century Cast Iron Handled Cauldron with Stand

Located in Germantown, MD

A 19th Century Cast Iron Handled Cauldron with Stand / jardiniere. Measures: 11.5" in width, 11.5

Category

Antique 19th Century American American Colonial Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Spanish Cauldron Pot / Vessel with Handles in Cast Iron, 1930s

$1,566

H 10.63 in W 14.18 in D 12.6 in

Spanish Cauldron Pot / Vessel with Handles in Cast Iron, 1930s

Located in Barcelona, ES

Solid Cast iron kitchen cauldron with handles from Galicia, Spain, 1920s-1930s. Made in molded

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Rustic Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Pair of gilt copper cauldrons with cast iron handles - Italy - 19th century

$2,186 / set

H 15.75 in Dm 13.78 in

Pair of gilt copper cauldrons with cast iron handles - Italy - 19th century

Located in Madrid, España

Pair of gilt copper cauldrons with cast iron handles - Italy - 19th century Dimensions: 35 x 40 cm

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Decorative Baskets

Materials

Copper, Iron

Spanish Rustic Iron Cauldron Pot or Vessel with Original Rusty Patina

$1,821

H 11.82 in Dm 16.93 in

Spanish Rustic Iron Cauldron Pot or Vessel with Original Rusty Patina

Located in Barcelona, ES

Primitive Rustic Iron Cauldron from the northern part of Spain, 1920s Made in molded cast iron

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Rustic Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Pair of American Brass & Wrought Iron Plantation Cauldrons on Stand CT, C. 1851

$9,800 / set

H 19.25 in Dm 20 in

Pair of American Brass & Wrought Iron Plantation Cauldrons on Stand CT, C. 1851

By The Hayden Company

Located in Charleston, SC

Pair of American brass and wrought iron plantation cauldrons with original scrolled handles fitted

Category

Antique 1850s American American Empire Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Brass, Iron, Wrought Iron

American Copper, Brass, and Wrought Iron Plantation Cauldron on Stand, C 1780

$7,500

H 23 in Dm 24 in

American Copper, Brass, and Wrought Iron Plantation Cauldron on Stand, C 1780

Located in Charleston, SC

American copper and wrought iron plantation cauldron with brass ring mounts, original wrought iron

Category

Antique 1780s American American Colonial Wine Coolers

Materials

Brass, Copper, Wrought Iron

Recent Sales

Antique Large Round Cast Iron Kettle Cauldron Pot Fire Pit 17"

Unavailable

H 14 in W 24 in D 22 in

Antique Large Round Cast Iron Kettle Cauldron Pot Fire Pit 17"

Located in Pasadena, CA

Antique round cast iron cauldron pot, very solid, heavy and in good condition, rust inside

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Rustic Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Huge Vintage Swiss Copper Chocolate Vat Cauldron, circa 1890

Unavailable

H 40 in W 47 in D 36 in

Huge Vintage Swiss Copper Chocolate Vat Cauldron, circa 1890

Located in Houston, TX

An enormous copper chocolate vat from Switzerland circa 1890 with the original iron handle. Made

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Swiss Industrial Architectural Elements

Materials

Copper, Iron

Pair of Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Planters

Sold

H 25 in Dm 19.5 in

Pair of Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Planters

Located in Dallas, TX

A stunning pair of 19th century antique cauldron-style planters, crafted from durable cast iron and

Category

Antique 1860s Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Large Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Pot Garden Planter Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Sold

H 22.84 in W 28.75 in D 28.75 in

Large Antique Cast Iron Cauldron Pot Garden Planter Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Located in Bristol, GB

great effect. Made from cast iron it is heavy and sturdy with a wonderful patina naturally built up as

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Pair of Ebonized Cast Iron Handled Cauldrons with Tripod Feet

Sold

H 21.25 in Dm 17.5 in

Pair of Ebonized Cast Iron Handled Cauldrons with Tripod Feet

Located in Milford, NH

A fine pair of ebonized cast iron handled cauldrons with tripod feet, marked on base “40L, AO, Made

Category

Early 20th Century Portuguese Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Collection of 4 Cast Iron Cauldrons or Buckets

Sold

H 18 in Dm 24 in

Collection of 4 Cast Iron Cauldrons or Buckets

Located in Sheffield, MA

A collection of 4 cast iron buckets or pots. Three have a handle and can be used for fireplace

Category

Early 20th Century American Rustic Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Iron

Antique Tibetan Hanging Cast Iron Cauldron Pot Hearthware Kettle

Sold

H 6 in W 8 in D 7 in

Antique Tibetan Hanging Cast Iron Cauldron Pot Hearthware Kettle

Located in Dayton, OH

Antique Tibetan / Nepal cast iron hanging fireplace hearthware cauldron featuring rounded form with

Category

Antique 19th Century Tibetan Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

Early 19th Century Cast Iron Cauldron or Kettle, Continental Circa 1800

Sold

H 9.5 in Dm 11.5 in

Early 19th Century Cast Iron Cauldron or Kettle, Continental Circa 1800

Located in Ottawa, Ontario

The seamed body of bellied form encircled with two bands of raised mouldings and rising to a flaring rim retaining its original swing handle, raised overall upon 3 peg-shaped feet. ...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century European Rustic Planters, Cachepots and Jardi...

Materials

Iron

Set of Three Spanish 1930s Cast Iron Kitchen Pots or Cauldrons

Sold

H 14.18 in Dm 11.82 in

Set of Three Spanish 1930s Cast Iron Kitchen Pots or Cauldrons

Located in Barcelona, ES

Collection of three cast iron cauldrons from Galicia in different sizes. Spain, circa 1930. Made in

Category

Vintage 1920s Spanish Rustic Collectibles and Curiosities

Materials

Iron

Large Patinated Iron Cauldron Wood Holder

Sold

H 16.5 in Dm 26.5 in

Large Patinated Iron Cauldron Wood Holder

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Large patinated iron cauldron wood holder. Great next to a fireplace.

Category

Early 20th Century American Industrial Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Iron

A Chinese Cast Iron Cauldron

Sold

H 17.72 in Dm 32.68 in

A Chinese Cast Iron Cauldron

Located in London, GB

An extremely heavy cast Iron Cauldron with ornate details of leaves, flowers and fish, with handles

Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier Chinese Other Fountains

Materials

Iron

Large Cast Iron Log Holder Cauldron

Sold

H 14 in Dm 27 in

Large Cast Iron Log Holder Cauldron

Located in Wainscott, NY

Very Very Heavy Footed Iron Cauldron, Perfect for Firewood, Has movable bale handle, 3 feet on

Category

Antique 19th Century American Folk Art Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Large Old Cast Iron Witch Kettle or Cauldron, circa 1900

Sold

H 16.9 in W 17.7 in D 17.7 in

Large Old Cast Iron Witch Kettle or Cauldron, circa 1900

Located in Raalte, NL

Old and large cast iron witches cauldron or kettle with two ears and standing on three legs and is

Category

20th Century European Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Iron

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Cast Iron Cauldron For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the cast iron cauldron you’re looking for. Frequently made of iron, metal and brass, every cast iron cauldron was constructed with great care. Your living room may not be complete without a cast iron cauldron — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. A cast iron cauldron is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Folk Art and Industrial styles are sought with frequency. A well-made cast iron cauldron has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by The Hayden Company are consistently popular.

How Much is a Cast Iron Cauldron?

The average selling price for a cast iron cauldron at 1stDibs is $1,524, while they’re typically $532 on the low end and $36,153 for the highest priced.

Finding the Right Building And Garden Elements for You

Choosing the right antique or vintage building and garden elements can prove pivotal when you’re working to beautify any room in your home or just put the finishing touches on a garden or other outdoor area.

It takes time and effort to improve your outdoor space or merely to bring an air of tranquility to an indoor area set aside for private relaxation or gathering with friends. The good news is that 1stDibs can help.

To introduce a sense of timelessness to a back patio or interior common area, choose cast-stone statues or sculptural busts for a dose of drama or select ornate architectural elements such as corbels, plaques or panels made of marble or iron. Elsewhere, find a focal point in your living room and create a “feature wall” by bringing pops of color into a corner with handmade antique ceramic tiles.

It helps when design changes like these have a practical upside too.

Victorian cast-iron stair treads hearken back to a time when adding decorative details to your property was a priority. While lending an attractive appearance to an exterior staircase, these safeguards render the steps slip-resistant for those coming and going. And as one good stylistic choice usually leads to another, pairing your sophisticated treads with a coupling of 19th-century hand-forged andirons would be a thoughtful, durable touch for any courtyard or comfortable lounge space, be they intended for an indoor fireplace or a patio firepit.

Where the garden is concerned, any sophisticated garden ornaments you select should work with nature, not against it. Wrought-iron garden gates will simply refuse to be relegated to the background. Instead, they’ll draw attention to your painstakingly sculpted hedges and colorful flora. When paired with a sparse arrangement of other tasteful additions, such as a stone planter, garden stool or other welcoming pieces of outdoor seating, the effect can be transformative.

On 1stDibs, find a sprawling collection of antique garden furniture and architectural elements that meet every need. Our offerings include everything from sculptural bathroom fixtures to flooring ideas to pedestals and columns designed in a variety of styles and much more.

Questions About Cast Iron Cauldron

What is the difference between iron and cast iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The difference between iron and cast iron comes down to content. Iron is generally pure iron, a chemical element that is a solid metal at room temperature. Cast iron is a mix of iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus and other elements. Both iron and cast iron can be used to produce furniture, cookware, decorative objects and other items. Generally, cast iron is heavier than iron. Shop an assortment of iron and cast iron pieces on 1stDibs.
Who invented cast iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The name of the person who invented cast iron is unknown. However, anthropologists and archaeologists have determined that the ancient Chinese were the first to develop it. The earliest known examples of cast iron date back to the 6th century B.C. Cast iron production didn't begin in Europe until the 14th century A.D. Shop a collection of cast iron furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
What are cast iron columns?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Cast iron columns are vertical supports produced out of cast iron, a material made from iron and alloys with a carbon content of more than two percent. During the 19th century, cast iron columns were used in architecture. Today, they primarily function as decorative objects. Shop a range of cast iron columns on 1stDibs.
Are cast iron columns hollow?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
Whether cast iron columns are hollow depends on the piece. Most cast iron columns are hollow due to the manner of crafting, but some are solid. On 1stDibs, find a selection of columns.
Can I use cast iron as a planter?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Yes, you can generally use cast iron as a planter because the material is durable and sturdy. However, you may need to drill drainage holes in a cast iron piece that wasn't intended to function as a planter to allow excess water to exit the vessel. On 1stDibs, find a selection of cast iron planters.
Do cast iron tables rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Yes, cast iron tables can rust. Pieces are more likely to develop rust when exposed to humidity, such as in bathrooms or outdoor living spaces in coastal areas. Wiping surfaces clean regularly and touching up scratches and chips can reduce the risk of rust. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron tables.
Do cast iron Firebacks work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
Yes, cast iron firebacks are quite sturdy and work really well. As they are made of solid iron, it's a challenge to move and place them. Given that, cast iron firebacks are the best protection for the back wall of the fireplace. Find a variety of firebacks on 1stDibs.
How do I hang a cast iron bell?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
How to hang a cast iron bell depends on the style. Some cast iron bells have loops at the top that you can hang from a hook anchored onto your desired mounting surface. Others have brackets or frames that you can secure with mounting screws. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron bells.
How do I keep cast iron from rusting?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
To keep a piece made of cast iron from rusting, place it in a cool, dry space with good air circulation.
When were cast iron doorstops made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Cast iron doorstops originated in the late 18th century. Osbourn Dursey invented the first doorstop in 1878. Decorative cast iron stops became popular in the 1920s and remained so throughout World War II. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique cast iron doorstops.
Is cast iron stronger than steel?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Cast iron is stronger than steel.
What is a cast iron fireplace insert?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
A cast iron fireplace insert is a firebox that fits into an existing fireplace surround. The insert is made of cast iron, a type of iron that is more than 2 percent carbon. Cast iron is highly durable and very resistant to the effects of heat. You'll find a selection of cast iron fireplace inserts on 1stDibs.
What are cast iron trivets used for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
Cast iron trivets are used for many things but are especially ideal for slow cooking meat. They can prop up food in Dutch ovens to prevent burning and increase heat distribution.
Does cast-iron furniture rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.
Why is cast iron used for fireplaces?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Cast iron is frequently used for fireplaces due to its properties. The metal is highly durable, allowing it to hold up to the effects of frequent use. It also readily conducts heat to help warm up interiors. You'll find a variety of cast iron fireplaces on 1stDibs.
Why is cast iron used for benches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
Cast iron is often used for benches because of its characteristics. Its strength makes it well-suited to support the weight of two or more adults, and its hardness allows it to resist damage due to weather exposure. Shop a range of cast iron benches on 1stDibs.
When were cast iron beds made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Cast iron beds were made starting in the 1850s. These types of beds were handmade until World War I through the use of molds.
How can you tell the difference between cast iron and wrought iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is not brittle and will bend rather than break. Wrought ironwork is produced with a hammer and anvil and tends to be more intricate than cast ironwork, which is characterized by repetitive designs that can be carved into a wooden pattern and cast.
Do cast iron umbrella stands rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, cast iron umbrella stands and anything made of cast iron can rust. Keeping your cast iron umbrella stand away from moisture and humidity is the best way to keep it from rusting. However, because it is designed to hold wet umbrellas that may be impractical. Some people like to paint cast iron to protect it from rusting. You’ll find a variety of cast iron and other umbrella stands from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Does cast iron garden furniture last?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Whether cast iron garden furniture lasts depends on the quality of the pieces and how well you care for and maintain them over time. Many people choose cast iron, aluminum, wicker or rattan garden furniture for their outdoor patio sets. Shop an assortment of garden furniture on 1stDibs.

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