Fantastic and Rare Victorian Style Mechanical Fireplace Bellows. England, S. XIX

This antique piece is a bellows used to fan the fireplaces flames. It comes from England and is a very old article, as it was made in the Victorian era (19th century). The bellows is made of solid wood and golden brass, having survived to our days in excellent condition. The mechanism still works though the wheel is slightly worn and can scarcely operate the inner fan. This is why this article is basically a collectors piece, perfect as a decorative element that will stand out because of its beauty and originality. The bellows operation is simple and also ingenious. Differently from the typical accordion models, this singular device has a fan inside that moves when the outside crank is turned. This crank is attached to a wooden disk that operates the mentioned fan. The vanes generate airflow and send it to the brass end. The sides of the bellows are made of solid mahogany wood, with a deep reddish tone and greatly preserved. The wood shows some signs of the trace of time and use; these details are part of the bellows past and provide it with character and a very singular charm. The top plate that connects the wooden sides, as well as the reinforcements, the gears and the end, are made of golden brass and are attached to the wood by solid screws. The metal looks bright and event; its polished surface makes a striking contrast with the beautiful dark and deep color of the wood. This gorgeous bellows, more than one hundred years old, is perfect to decorate a country living room or an antique fireplace. Measurements: Length: 17.7 in/8.6 cm. Height: 8.6 in/22 cm.