Trivets: Cast Iron, Brass & Wrought Iron Hot Plate Stands

Trivets are three-legged or footed stands designed to hold hot dishes, irons, or kettles, produced from the 17th century through the early 20th century in cast iron, wrought iron, brass, and ceramic. Ranging from simple blacksmith-forged designs to elaborately cast Victorian pieces with patriotic, fraternal, and decorative motifs, trivets combine functional design with decorative appeal and are among the most accessible categories of antique metalwork.

History & Production

The earliest trivets were hand-forged by blacksmiths for hearth use, designed to support kettles and pots over open fires. By the mid-19th century, foundries mass-produced cast-iron trivets in hundreds of patterns. Many were designed as sad iron stands (for holding heated flat irons during pressing). The most prolific era of trivet production was 1850-1910. Notable foundries include Ober, JZH (John Zimmerman Harner), Wilton, and various unnamed regional foundries.

Types & Styles

• Hearth Trivets: Tall, three-legged stands for fireplace use, often wrought iron
• Sad Iron Stands: Flat, pointed trivets designed to hold flat irons; the most common type
• Cathedral/Gothic: Pointed arch designs inspired by Gothic architecture
• Patriotic: Eagle, flag, and George Washington designs
• Fraternal: Masonic, Odd Fellows, and other lodge symbols
• Floral & Geometric: Scrollwork, hearts, flowers, and abstract patterns
• Brass Trivets: English and Continental examples, often with turned wood handles
• Ceramic Tile Trivets: Cast iron frames with decorative tile inserts

Auction Price Ranges

Condition Factors

• Casting quality: Sharp, crisp details indicate good castings; worn molds produce blurry patterns
• Cracks: Hairline cracks in cast iron, especially at leg joints, significantly reduce value
• Original finish: Some trivets retain original japanning (black lacquer); this adds value when intact
• Legs: All legs must be present, equal length, and original; replaced legs are common
• Rust: Light surface rust is acceptable on iron; deep pitting or scale is detrimental
• Warping: Flat trivets should sit level; warped examples are less desirable

Collecting Tips

• Cast-iron trivets are the most widely collected category, with hundreds of documented patterns
• Reference Dick Hankenson's "Trivets" and "More Trivets" for pattern identification and numbering
• Reproductions and recastings are extremely common; study original casting quality and weight
• Early hand-forged wrought-iron trivets predate the casting era and are increasingly valued as folk art
• Brass trivets appeal to both metalwork collectors and those furnishing period interiors
• Look for unusual figural designs, advertising trivets, and those with identifiable foundry marks
• JZH trivets (John Zimmerman Harner reproductions from the 1940s-50s) are collectible in their own right but should not be confused with Victorian originals