Pair Of Cast Iron Basins With Dragons, 19th Century

Pair of Large Decorative Cast Iron Basins by Fet with Stylized Dragons. Period: late 19th century – (Napoleon III style / eclectic). An important pair of ornamental cast iron basins, resting on quadrangular pedestals, forming a striking architectural ensemble. Each basin has a deeply carved circular bowl with a rim edged by a frieze of regular gadroons, evoking the classical vocabulary of 19th-century decorative arts. The particularly spectacular side handles take the form of richly sculpted, fantastical dragons with sinuous bodies and expressive heads, rendered in high relief. These dragons serve both as decorative elements and monumental handles, lending the ensemble a strong symbolic and decorative dimension. Detailed Description Material: Thick cast iron Structure: Circular basin with a wide opening, fluted pedestal, stepped square base Decoration: Gadrooned frieze around the upper rim, stylized dragons with vegetal scrolls, highly detailed sculptural work, typical of 19th-century ornamental cast iron Interior: Hollowed-out basins with a central draining orifice, indicating an earlier decorative exterior use or use as a hydraulic ornament Style and Inspiration This ensemble belongs to the grand tradition of French and European decorative cast iron from the late 19th century, a period marked by: a taste for monumental ornament, historical eclecticism, mythological and fantastical inspiration, and the use of the dragon as a symbol of strength, protection, and power. These pieces evoke works intended for winter gardens, private parks, townhouses, or World's Fair displays. Condition: Beautiful natural dark grey patina. Ancient oxidation consistent with age. Traces of use and outdoor exposure visible inside the basins. Sound and stable structure. Complete and homogeneous set. The condition is authentic, not excessively restored, preserving all the character and nobility of the material. The basins measure 66 cm in height and 80 cm in length including the dragon-shaped handles.