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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Is cast iron stronger than steel?

Cast iron is stronger than steel.

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.

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.

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.

Does cast-iron furniture rust?

Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.

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.

How can I tell if a cast iron fireplace is real?

To check if your cast iron fireplace is real, examine the details, which should be crisp and clear. Also, check to see if there’s an identifying name or brand, which will be indented, to help with authentication. Shop a collection of cast iron fireplace accessories from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Are cast iron door stops valuable?

To tell if a cast iron doorstop is valuable, always look for original paint. Any that have been repainted or repaired will have diminished in value. You can also use online resources to try and research items, but the best way to find out if a cast iron doorstop is worth anything is to consult a certified appraiser. An experienced professional can evaluate the condition, determine the maker and research the piece to assign an approximate value. On 1stDibs, find a range of doorstops.

Cast Iron Lighting

Poland Chandelier

Weight Iron

Szarvasi Lamp

Caged Glass Pendant Light

Green Enamel Industrial Pendant

Iron Cage Chandelier

Cast Glass Lamp

Glass Grid

1980s Hannes Wettstein for Belux of Spain Postmodern Adjustable Floor Lamp

$1,200

1980s Hannes Wettstein for Belux of Spain Postmodern Adjustable Floor Lamp

By Hannes Wettstein

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This is an adjustable Hi-tech Post Modern Floor Lamp, designed by Hannes Wettstein for Belux in the 1980s. The lamp was produced in Spain. The design features a black steel extendabl...

Category

Vintage 1980s Spanish Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Cast Iron

Pair of American Nickel Silver & Brass Coach Lanterns with Circular Glass C 1830

$9,000 / set

Pair of American Nickel Silver & Brass Coach Lanterns with Circular Glass C 1830

Located in Charleston, SC

Pair of American nickel silver, copper, and brass coach lanterns with the original flanking circular beveled glass mounted on iron brackets. Lanterns were originally oil and have bee...

Category

Antique 1830s American American Empire Lanterns

Materials

Brass, Copper, Iron, Nickel

Articulated Industrial Lamp by Kaiser Leuchten

$1,250

Articulated Industrial Lamp by Kaiser Leuchten

Located in Dekalb, IL

c. 1930s; Gebr. Kaiser & Co - Neheim-Hüsten (Arnsberg), Germany Vintage adjustable task lamp in black. This piece includes a painted metal exterior with a bell shade and cast iron ...

Category

Vintage 1930s Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Cast Iron

10-Arm Floor Lamp A Purist Masterpiece Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce 50s rare

$34,166

10-Arm Floor Lamp A Purist Masterpiece Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce 50s rare

By Oscar Torlasco, Lumi

Located in Biella, IT

The manufacturing quality perfectly reflects Sarfatti's signature "less is more" engineering philosophy, where exterior minimalism is matched by a radical structural reduction on the...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Cast Iron

Antique Industrial Articulated Floor Lamp by Dazor

$2,220

Antique Industrial Articulated Floor Lamp by Dazor

By Dazor

Located in Dekalb, IL

An articulated floor lamp developed by Dazor. The lamp features several working joints allowing for a full range of motion in the space.

Category

Early 20th Century Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Cast Iron

Vintage Svend Aage Holm Sørensen “Fishing Pole” Floor Lamp, Denmark, circa 1955

$4,783

Vintage Svend Aage Holm Sørensen “Fishing Pole” Floor Lamp, Denmark, circa 1955

By Svend Aage Holm Sørensen

Located in Paris, FR

Period examples are recorded in teak, brass and blackened cast iron, with suspended diffusers in different configurations.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Dark Green Aluminum & Chrome Plated Metal 1960s Floor Lamp with adjustable shade

$922

Dark Green Aluminum & Chrome Plated Metal 1960s Floor Lamp with adjustable shade

Located in Varese, Lombardia

This small and thin floor lamp was produced in the 60s. A slender chrome-plated rod supports a trumpet-shaped lampshade made of dark green painted aluminum (shows some defects). The ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Space Age Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Chrome, Cast Iron

Late 19th Century Art Nouveau Torchiere Floor Lamp

$1,450

Late 19th Century Art Nouveau Torchiere Floor Lamp

Located in Dekalb, IL

This ornate floor lamp features a cast metal tripod base with twisted rods, acanthus leaf detailing, and claw feet, topped by a vivid red etched glass globe shade. Rich with classica...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American Art Nouveau Floor Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Early Mid Century Akari "L1 + BB3" Floor Lamp by Isamu Noguchi by Ozeki, 1970s

$21,187

Early Mid Century Akari "L1 + BB3" Floor Lamp by Isamu Noguchi by Ozeki, 1970s

By Isamu Noguchi, Ozeki & Co. Ltd. 1

Located in Stockholm, SE

A very rare and early Japanese mid century modern floor lamp with the "L1" shade in patinated washi paper with red details and the iconic bamboo and cast iron "BB3" base designed by ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Japanese Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Enzo Mari & G. Fassina Aggregato Floor Lamp for Artemide, Italy, 1975

$1,850

Enzo Mari & G. Fassina Aggregato Floor Lamp for Artemide, Italy, 1975

By Artemide, Enzo Mari

Located in Dronten, NL

Striking Aggregato floor lamp, designed by Enzo Mari and G. Fassina for Artemide. A defining example of Italian postmodern lighting, the Aggregato combines a strong architectural pre...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Industrial Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Iron

Vintage Gooseneck Medical Floor Lamp

$1,600

Vintage Gooseneck Medical Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Vintage Steel & Cast Iron Zoalite Medical Floor Lamp by Burdick Co, Milton, WI Height from floor to main upright: 43" - 73" Length from knuckle to the outer edge of the shade: 24" ...

Category

Early 20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen, Attributed Floor Lamp, Denmark, Mid-20th Century

$4,441

Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen, Attributed Floor Lamp, Denmark, Mid-20th Century

Located in Hammarö, SE

Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen, Attributed Floor Lamp, Denmark, Mid-20th Century A striking Danish floor lamp attributed to Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen, dating from the second half of the 20...

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Art Nouveau Table Lamp with Signed Quezal Art Glass Shade

$1,500

Art Nouveau Table Lamp with Signed Quezal Art Glass Shade

By Quezal

Located in Dekalb, IL

c. 1900s/1910s; The Quezal Art Glass and Decorating Co. - Queens, New York Adjustable painted cast iron lamp with a carnival glass shade. This piece features a heavy, cast iron bod...

Category

Early 20th Century Table Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Akari Floor Lamp BB3 - 55D by Isamu Noguchi for Ozeki & Co

$4,150

Akari Floor Lamp BB3 - 55D by Isamu Noguchi for Ozeki & Co

By Isamu Noguchi

Located in Dronten, NL

Poetic Isamu Noguchi Akari floor lamp, model BB3-55DD. Cast iron base with bamboo stem and a handmade washi paper shade.

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Iron

Franz West Chain Floor Lamp circa 1970

$2,450

Franz West Chain Floor Lamp circa 1970

Located in London, GB

Franz West Chain Floor Lamp circa 1970. Articulated brass bulb holders complement this sculptural Brutalist floor lamp, crafted from heavy-duty cast iron chain links. Attributed to ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Vintage Industrial Adjustable Medical Floor Lamp

$1,600

Vintage Industrial Adjustable Medical Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Vintage Model C Medical Floor Lamp by General Electric Corp., Chicago IL Overall Height: 49" - 72" Base Diameter: 11 1/2" Shade Diameter: 9 1/2" Materials: Steel & Cast Iron

Category

Early 20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Vintage Industrial Medical Floor Lamp with Star Base

$1,600

Vintage Industrial Medical Floor Lamp with Star Base

Located in Oakville, CT

Height from floor to top of main upright: 37" - 64 1/2" Projection from hinge to shade: 20 1/2" Shade Diameter: 14" Base: 16" x 16" Materials: Steel & Cast Iron

Category

Early 20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Vintage Industrial Rolling Medical Floor Lamp

$1,600

Vintage Industrial Rolling Medical Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Universal Physiotherapy Clamp-O-Lite by Paul E. Johnson, Chicago, IL Overall Height: 65 1/2" Length of Arm: 30" Base Measures: 19" x 19" Diameter of Shade: 12" Materials: Steel ...

Category

Early 20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Vintage Industrial Double Arm Articulating Floor Lamp with Solid Base

$3,500

Vintage Industrial Double Arm Articulating Floor Lamp with Solid Base

Located in Oakville, CT

Vintage Factory Double Arm Floor Lamp Base Measures: 15" x 15" Height from floor to top of main upright: 55" Length of Arms: 16" Diameter of Shades: 4 1/2" Materials: Cast Iron ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Red and Black "Arma" Adjustable Floor Lamp by Metalarte, 1970s

$1,395

Red and Black "Arma" Adjustable Floor Lamp by Metalarte, 1970s

By Metalarte

Located in Mortsel, BE

Two-tone "Arma" floor lamp, produced by Metalarte in Spain during the 1970s. This version features a bold color combination typical of the era: a vibrant red lacquered shade and arti...

Category

Vintage 1970s Spanish Industrial Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Model 1464 Table Lamp By Hala Circa 1930s

$728

Model 1464 Table Lamp By Hala Circa 1930s

Located in Gloucester, GB

Model 1464 Table Lamp By Hala Circa 1930s Product code #OA3426 - Cast iron base - Aluminium shade - Original On/Off toggle switch on the shade - Adjustable arm and shade - Takes E2...

Category

Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Cast Iron

1940s Industrial Boom Articulating Floor Lamp

$3,500

1940s Industrial Boom Articulating Floor Lamp

Located in Chicago, IL

1940s Industrial boom articulating floor lamp. Heavy cast iron base.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Industrial Floor Lamps

Materials

Iron

Style of Paul Kiss Table Lamp

$5,500

Style of Paul Kiss Table Lamp

By Degué, Paul Kiss

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Classic French Art Deco table lamp in the style of Paul Kiss, circa 1925, cast iron with Degue glass shade. Measures: 16” high.

Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Iron

French Airport Blue Grey Metal and Glass Spotlight, Floor lamp by Philips

$1,993 / item

French Airport Blue Grey Metal and Glass Spotlight, Floor lamp by Philips

By Philips

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Adjustable industrial spot, floor lamp from French Airport by Philips, Holland. Blue / Grey metal with clear glass Cast iron arm and base Heavy!!! Electra wire 3 meter / 120” with ...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Industrial Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Vintage Industrial Articulating Table Mount Task Lamp

$820

Vintage Industrial Articulating Table Mount Task Lamp

Located in Dekalb, IL

The lamp retains its brass keyless socket, cloth-covered wiring, and original cast iron clamp, reflecting the rugged construction typical of American industrial lighting from the fir...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Industrial Table Lamps

Materials

Steel, Cast Iron

Vintage Industrial Articulating Table Mount Task Lamp

$820

Vintage Industrial Articulating Table Mount Task Lamp

Located in Dekalb, IL

The lamp retains its brass keyless socket, cloth-covered wiring, and original cast iron clamp, reflecting the rugged construction typical of American industrial lighting from the fir...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Industrial Table Lamps

Materials

Steel, Cast Iron

Pair of Signal Table Lamp from Souda, Nickel, Made to Order

$3,200Sale Price / set|20% Off

Pair of Signal Table Lamp from Souda, Nickel, Made to Order

By Souda, Shaun Kasperbauer

Located in Brooklyn, NY

From beneath it’s spun metal shade LEDs cast a warm and inviting glow onto a polished central stem grounded by a cast iron base.

Category

2010s American Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Aluminum, Steel, Iron

1930s French Art Deco Adjustable Bronze & Opaline Glass Table Lamp

$1,872

1930s French Art Deco Adjustable Bronze & Opaline Glass Table Lamp

Located in Nottingham, GB

Its combination of bronze, cast iron and chrome-plated detailing gives the piece a strong industrial quality while retaining the refined proportions associated with French decorative...

Category

Early 20th Century Table Lamps

Materials

Bronze, Chrome, Cast Iron

Floor Lamp Designed by Alvar Aalto for Valaistustyö, Finland, 1950s

$27,257

Floor Lamp Designed by Alvar Aalto for Valaistustyö, Finland, 1950s

By Valaistustyö, Alvar Aalto

Located in Stockholm, SE

Cast iron, brass, lacquered metal and leather.

Category

Vintage 1950s Finnish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Mid-Century Industrial Surveyors Wooden Tripod Floor Lamp with Metal Shade

$995

Mid-Century Industrial Surveyors Wooden Tripod Floor Lamp with Metal Shade

Located in Atlanta, GA

Construction & Design Details: Tripod Frame: Constructed from solid hardwood legs with warm honey tones and red-painted interior faces. Joined by dark iron triangular cross-braces a...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Arts and Crafts Floor Lamps

Materials

Sheet Metal, Cast Iron

Vintage Industrial Floor Lamp

$1,800

Vintage Industrial Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Adjustable factory floor lamp Overall Height: 52 1/4" Arm Length: 20 1/4" Shade Diameter: 6 1/4" / Base Diameter: 10 1/2" Materials: steel & cast iron.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Art Nouveau Double Tulip Slag Glass Table Lamp

$1,500

Art Nouveau Double Tulip Slag Glass Table Lamp

Located in Dekalb, IL

Art Nouveau-inspired table lamp featuring a pair of downward-facing tulip-form shades fitted with warm amber slag glass panels, each bordered by beaded metal trim. The twin arms rise...

Category

Early 20th Century Table Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Vintage Industrial Double Arm Floor Lamp

$2,800

Vintage Industrial Double Arm Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Vintage Factory Adjustable Floor Lamp Height from floor to main upright: 52" Length of primary arms: 25 1/2" Length of secondary arms: 20" Shade Diameter: 3 1/2" Base Diameter: ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Steel, Iron

The Gramercy Park Hotel Floor Lamp with Metal Shade

$1,799 / item

The Gramercy Park Hotel Floor Lamp with Metal Shade

By Tim Byrne

Located in Oakville, CT

The original floor lamp featured in the rooms of The Gramercy Park Hotel. Cast-iron trumpet base, steel pole, goose-neck arm, brass socket and vintage metal glass shade. Milk glass s...

Category

2010s Industrial Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass, Steel, Iron

"Area" floor lamp in metal and plastic by Mario Bellini for Artemide, Italy, 1974

$3,986

"Area" floor lamp in metal and plastic by Mario Bellini for Artemide, Italy, 1974

By Mario Bellini

Located in Arezzo, Italy

Iconic Area floor lamp designed by Mario Bellini for Artemide in 1974. Raw cast iron base, lacquered metal frame, synthetic fabric shade, adjustable light. The project received an ho...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Cast Iron

Vintage Frankart Figural Art Deco Lamp

$1,250

Vintage Frankart Figural Art Deco Lamp

Located in Dekalb, IL

c. 1930s; (likely) Frankart Inc. - New York Vintage Art Deco lamp with figural statuette. This piece features a bronze-painted base and figure that appears to depict a young boy sm...

Category

Vintage 1930s Table Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Luigi Caccia Dominioni, Floor Lamp, Italy, 1980

$14,805

Luigi Caccia Dominioni, Floor Lamp, Italy, 1980

By Luigi Caccia Dominioni, Azucena

Located in Barcelona, ES

Luigi Caccia Dominioni (1913-2016) Floor lamp Manufactured by Azucena, Italy, 1980. Cast iron, copper-plated metal, brass, pressed glass Measurements 40cmx185hcm 101,6 in x 469,9 ...

Category

20th Century Italian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass, Iron

Vintage Industrial Articulating Floor Lamp

$1,800

Vintage Industrial Articulating Floor Lamp

Located in Oakville, CT

Vintage Industrial Articulating Floor Lamp with Green Shade Base Dimensions: 10" diameter x 10" high Height from floor to top of main upright: 57 3/4" Length of adjustable arm inc...

Category

Early 20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Steel, Iron

1980's Italian Torchiere Brass Floor Lamps

$3,500 / set

1980's Italian Torchiere Brass Floor Lamps

Located in New York, NY

Amazing pair of 1980's Torchiere brass Italian floor lamps by LaRelco, in vintage original condition with some wear and patina due to age and use., there is some patina to the bases.

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Kandem Model 934 Table Lamp By Werner Glasenapp Circa 1930s

$1,953

Kandem Model 934 Table Lamp By Werner Glasenapp Circa 1930s

Located in Gloucester, GB

Kandem Model 934 Table Lamp By Werner Glasenapp Circa 1930s - Cast iron base - Curved adjustable Chrome arm - Black painted base and shade - Adjustable shade - Takes E27 fitting bul...

Category

Vintage 1930s German Bauhaus Table Lamps

Materials

Chrome, Cast Iron

Isamu Noguchi Akari Floor Lamp, Model BB3-33S, Ozeki & Co., Signed

$3,650

Isamu Noguchi Akari Floor Lamp, Model BB3-33S, Ozeki & Co., Signed

By Isamu Noguchi

Located in Dronten, NL

Light, when filtered through the hands of Isamu Noguchi, becomes architecture. It carves space from shadow, weightless and warm. The BB3-33S is a quiet monument to this philosophy—a ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Iron

Pair French Gilt Lamps Empire Table Lights

$3,063 / set

Pair French Gilt Lamps Empire Table Lights

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Pair elegant French Empire style gilt table lamps Good size at over three feet tall - 1010 CM Such a quality to the casting of the lamps Bought from a dealer on Marche Biron at Paris...

Category

Vintage 1980s Table Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Vintage Explosion-Proof Industrial Spotlight c.1940

$875

Vintage Explosion-Proof Industrial Spotlight c.1940

Located in San Francisco, CA

ABOUT A vintage industrial explosion-proof spotlight originally designed for working in oil fields and hazardous environments. The lamp features a heavily ribbed steel head that ad...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Industrial Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Black Industrial Bauhaus Table Lamp from Escolux, 1930s

$340

Black Industrial Bauhaus Table Lamp from Escolux, 1930s

Located in Kojetice, CZ

This black Bauhaus industrial desk lamp with two adjustable joints was made by Rech Escolux in Germany during the 1930s. It features black metal shade,an iron arm and a cast iron bas...

Category

Early 20th Century German Bauhaus Table Lamps

Materials

Iron

Art Nouveau Figural Lamp with Uranium Glass Shade by Anglade

$3,300

Art Nouveau Figural Lamp with Uranium Glass Shade by Anglade

By Gaston Vincent Anglade

Located in Dekalb, IL

c. 1915-1920s; Anglade - Paris, France Cast metal figural lamp depicting a draped woman leaning toward a stylized well, signed Anglade at the base and bearing the maker's medallion ...

Category

Vintage 1910s Table Lamps

Materials

Cast Iron

Adjustable Brass and Leather Floor Lamp by Arredoluce, Italy, 1950s

$4,555

Adjustable Brass and Leather Floor Lamp by Arredoluce, Italy, 1950s

By Arredoluce

Located in Milan, IT

An elegant adjustable floor lamp by Arredoluce, manufactured in Italy during the 1950s. The lamp features a slender stem wrapped in hand-stitched cognac-colored leather, enriched wi...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Vintage Frankart Revival "Butterfly Nymph" Art Deco Lamp by Sarsparilla

$1,500

Vintage Frankart Revival "Butterfly Nymph" Art Deco Lamp by Sarsparilla

By Arthur von Frankenberg

Located in Dekalb, IL

c. 1980s; Sarsaparilla Deco Designs - New York, NY Cast-metal figural table lamp depicting a stylized nude female form with outstretched arms supporting two frosted glass "wing" pan...

Category

Vintage 1980s Table Lamps

Materials

Enamel, Cast Iron

Industrial Grey Enamel Workshop Table Lamp from Siemens, 1950s

$340

Industrial Grey Enamel Workshop Table Lamp from Siemens, 1950s

By Siemens

Located in Kojetice, CZ

Industrial adjustable table lamp made by Siemens in Germany during the 1950s.It features grey enamel shade with white enamel interior, a cast iron base and an iron arm with three adj...

Category

Mid-20th Century German Industrial Table Lamps

Materials

Enamel, Iron

Mid Century Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s

$946 / set

Mid Century Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s

Located in Gloucester, GB

Mid Century Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s - Price is for the pair - Fiberglass shades - Brass arms - Cast iron bases with original grey paint - Takes E14 fitting bulbs - On/Off ...

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Black Industrial Bauhaus Table Lamp, 1930s

$249

Black Industrial Bauhaus Table Lamp, 1930s

Located in Kojetice, CZ

This black Bauhaus industrial desk lamp with two adjustable joints was made in Germany during the 1930s. It features black metal shade,an iron arm and a cast iron base with swich.The...

Category

Early 20th Century German Bauhaus Table Lamps

Materials

Iron

Floor Lamp by Nordiska Kompaniet in Brass, Sweden, 1940s

$3,986

Floor Lamp by Nordiska Kompaniet in Brass, Sweden, 1940s

By NK (Nordiska Kompaniet)

Located in Eskilstuna, SE

Floor lamp produced by Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden, during the first half of the 20th century. Executed in brass, the design is defined by its slender proportions and refined detailin...

Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Cast Iron

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Authentic Carl Auboeck Floor Lamp Vienna 1950s

$10,819

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Authentic Carl Auboeck Floor Lamp Vienna 1950s

By Werkstätte Carl Auböck

Located in Vienna, AT

Mid-Century Modern original vintage floor lamp Reversible Vice Versa from cast iron designed by Carl Auboeck, Vienna, 1951-1952 and executed by Werkstätte Carl Auböck. The floor lamp...

Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Iron

Stllnovo Table Lamp circa 1970

$2,587 / item

Stllnovo Table Lamp circa 1970

By Stilnovo

Located in Petworth, GB

A Stillnovo table lamp, circa 1970. The most curvaceous lamp I've ever laid eyes on, the shape sells this one. Stilnovo, founded by Bruno Gatta in 1946, pioneered a modernist appro...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Cast Iron

Angelo Ostuni and Renato Forti 399 Floor Lamp in Metal by Oluce 1960s

$1,548Sale Price|20% Off

Angelo Ostuni and Renato Forti 399 Floor Lamp in Metal by Oluce 1960s

By Renato Forti, Angelo Ostuni, Oluce

Located in Cascina, Pisa

Floor lamp model 399 (from cornalux series) with structure in nickel-plated metal, lacquered metal and cast iron. The lamp bulb is adjustable in height achieved by a bracket that al...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Brown Art Deco Goose Neck Table Desk light

$404

Brown Art Deco Goose Neck Table Desk light

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Brown Art Deco goose neck desk light. Brass flexible arm with metal shade. cast iron base. black cotton wire and plug. Also available with US/UK plug Weight: 1.30 kg / 2.9 lb Pric...

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Iron

Dome Lamp by Mike Serra

$1,650

Dome Lamp by Mike Serra

By Mike Ruiz Serra

Located in Stamford, US

This lamp base form was hand sculpted by Mike Ruiz Serra in his NYC studio and then sand cast in iron. This piece is finished with a black oxide solution and wax. Serra Hardware pro...

Category

2010s American Brutalist Table Lamps

Materials

Iron

Sonneman Chrome Eyeball Articulating Floor Lamp

$1,480

Sonneman Chrome Eyeball Articulating Floor Lamp

By Robert Sonneman

Located in Buffalo, NY

Classic 1960s articulating floor lamp by Robert Sonneman with chrome eyeball shade attached by an articulating joint to the long chrome stem at the base of which is the hefty round a...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Space Age Floor Lamps

Materials

Chrome, Iron

Mid Century Cobra Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s

$1,354 / set

Mid Century Cobra Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s

Located in Gloucester, GB

Mid Century Cobra Table Lamps By Cosack Circa 1950s - Price is for the pair - Aluminium shades - Brass arms - Cast iron bases with original Black paint - Takes E27 fitting bulbs - O...

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass, Cast Iron

Mid Century Modern Vintage Brass Black Floor Lamp Pink Shade Kalmar 1950 Austria

$3,633

Mid Century Modern Vintage Brass Black Floor Lamp Pink Shade Kalmar 1950 Austria

By J.T. Kalmar

Located in Vienna, AT

Mid Century Modern vintage brass floor lamp with black foot from iron by J.T. Kalmar - designed and executed 1950s Vienna, Austria. A beautiful floor lamp showing a brass curved stem...

Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Iron

Dominici Floor Lamp, Mid-century Modern Brazilian Design by Enrico Furio, 1950s

$20,720

Dominici Floor Lamp, Mid-century Modern Brazilian Design by Enrico Furio, 1950s

By Enrico Furio, Dominici

Located in New York, NY

Dominici Iluminação Moderna, founded by Enrico Furio Dominici in 1934, began as a lighting store in Bologna, Italy, before he relocated to Brazil amidst wartime disruptions. Dominic...

Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass, Iron

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Cast Iron Lighting For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic piece of cast iron lighting available at 1stDibs. An item from our selection of cast iron lighting — often made from metal, iron and glass — can elevate any home. There are 1511 variations of the antique or vintage choice in our collection of cast iron lighting you’re looking for, while we also have 37 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect object in our assortment of cast iron lighting — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each option in this array of cast iron lighting bearing Industrial, Mid-Century Modern or Art Deco hallmarks is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made piece of cast iron lighting over the years, but those crafted by Elektrosvit, 360volt and Industria Rotterdam are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Cast Iron Lighting?

Prices for a piece of cast iron lighting start at $48 and top out at $75,000 with the average selling for $678.

Finding the Right Lighting for You

The right table lamp, outwardly sculptural chandelier or understated wall pendant can work wonders for your home. While we’re indebted to thinkers like Thomas Edison for critically important advancements in lighting and electricity, we’re still finding new ways to customize illumination to fit our personal spaces all these years later. A wide range of antique and vintage lighting can be found on 1stDibs.

Today, lighting designers like the self-taught Bec Brittain have used the flexible structure of LEDs to craft glamorous solutions by working with what is typically considered a harsh lighting source. By integrating glass and mirrors, reflection can be used to soften the glow from LEDs and warmly welcome light into any space.

Although contemporary innovators continue to impress, some of the classics can’t be beat.

Just as gazing at the stars allows you to glimpse the universe’s past, vintage chandeliers like those designed by Gino Sarfatti and J. & L. Lobmeyr, for example, put on a similarly stunning show, each with a rich story to tell.

As dazzling as it is, the Arco lamp, on the other hand, prioritizes functionality — it’s wholly mobile, no drilling required. Designed in 1962 by architect-product designers Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, the piece takes the traditional form of a streetlamp and creates an elegant, arching floor fixture for at-home use.

There is no shortage of modernist lighting similarly prized by collectors and casual enthusiasts alike — there are Art Deco table lamps created in a universally appreciated style, the Tripod floor lamp by T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Greta Magnusson Grossman's sleek and minimalist Grasshopper lamps and, of course, the wealth of mid-century experimental lighting that emerged from Italian artisans at Arredoluce, FLOS and many more are hallmarks in illumination innovation.

With decades of design evolution behind it, home lighting is no longer just practical. Crystalline shaping by designers like Gabriel Scott turns every lighting apparatus into a luxury accessory. A new installation doesn’t merely showcase a space; carefully chosen ceiling lights, table lamps and floor lamps can create a mood, spotlight a favorite piece or highlight your unique personality.

The sparkle that your space has been missing is waiting for you amid the growing collection of antique, vintage and contemporary lighting for sale on 1stDibs.

Questions About Cast Iron Lighting

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is cast iron stronger than steel?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Cast iron is stronger than steel.
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.
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.
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.
Does cast-iron furniture rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.
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.
How can I tell if a cast iron fireplace is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To check if your cast iron fireplace is real, examine the details, which should be crisp and clear. Also, check to see if there’s an identifying name or brand, which will be indented, to help with authentication. Shop a collection of cast iron fireplace accessories from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Are cast iron door stops valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
To tell if a cast iron doorstop is valuable, always look for original paint. Any that have been repainted or repaired will have diminished in value. You can also use online resources to try and research items, but the best way to find out if a cast iron doorstop is worth anything is to consult a certified appraiser. An experienced professional can evaluate the condition, determine the maker and research the piece to assign an approximate value. On 1stDibs, find a range of doorstops.