Witco Tiki Fireplace Tool Set, Cedar & Metal, 1960s USA

About the Item

An exceptionally rare Witco fireplace tool set, circa 1960s–1970s, hand-carved in solid swamp cedar and paired with Brutalist metal panels and original wrought-iron tools. This dramatic ensemble captures the spirit of mid-century tiki modernism—a fusion of exoticism, utility, and sculptural craft. The vertical rack measures approximately 9″ W × 7.75″ D × 41.5″ H, giving it striking presence beside a hearth while maintaining a slender, architectural profile. The wood is richly carved in Witco’s signature chainsaw style, featuring expressive tiki-like motifs at both the base and crown. Flanking the wood are torch-cut metal panels, restored to their original verdigris patina, which contrast beautifully against the warm cedar tones. The set includes three original wrought-iron fireplace tools—a shovel, poker, and brush—each with curled scroll handles echoing Witco’s dramatic design language. The tools show light, age-consistent wear yet remain fully functional. Sympathetically restored, the metal panels were cleaned and sealed to preserve character while arresting oxidation; the cedar was conditioned, leaving natural color variations and small age splits typical of vintage Witco pieces. The result is a deeply tactile object that celebrates both material honesty and hand-carved artistry. More than functional, this piece serves as decorative sculpture—a bold statement for interiors that celebrate texture, exotic modernism, or postwar craft movements. It pairs effortlessly with stone, rattan, tropical plantings, or mid-century lounge settings, especially those echoing the playful luxury of tiki-era design. Dimensions: 9″ W × 7.75″ D × 41.5″ H Weight: 20.2 lbs Condition: Refinished metal panels with preserved verdigris; minor cedar wear and age splits typical of Witco. Fire tools show light, use-related surface wear and paint loss. Provenance: Witco, USA, circa 1960s–1970s For collectors of Witco carvings, tiki modernism, and mid-century handcrafted furniture, this fireplace set represents one of the rarest functional designs in the company’s oeuvre—a meeting of sculptural exuberance and authentic Americana.

Creator:
Witco (Manufacturer)
Similar to:
William Westenhaver / Witco (Designer)
Dimensions:
Height: 41.5 in (105.41 cm)Width: 9 in (22.86 cm)Depth: 7.75 in (19.69 cm)
Style:
Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Cedar,Metal,Paint
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1960-1969
Date of Manufacture:
1960s
Condition:
Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. VERY VERY VERY GOOD overall condition. Refinished Brutalist metal panels. Some light wear on wood. Some superficial wood splits — this is common age wear on Witco pieces. Fireplace tools have age appropriate wear including paint loss and scratches.
Seller Location:
Chattanooga, TN
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2255343867072