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What is Wrought Iron?

S. Mithra
S. Mithra

Wrought iron is a confusing term that refers to both a type of metal and a process of formation. More traditionally, it is a variety of iron, with additives that make it twistable with a low corrosion rate. The manufacture of this type of iron has been limited to Europe since 1969, however, because it is very expensive to make and fell out of fashion. More likely, when someone says "wrought iron," they refer to a forged (not truly wrought) iron that resembles the former in appearance, but which is made out of steel. This decorative iron creates reproductions for patio furniture, window screens, and custom fencing.

Authentic wrought iron differs from steel in that it is impregnated with tiny slivers of iron silicate known as "slag." When distributed as fibers, the slag changes the chemical properties of the iron enough to create a new and beneficial metal. This metal is valued for its strength under tensile pressure, resistance to corrosion, malleability, and how well it keeps a finish. Most metals, when corroding, exhibit ugly patches of discolored rust. This form of iron distributes the rust into a dappled coppery or brownish finish that often appeals to people's sense of age.

Wrought iron gates and fences were popular fixtures in Victorian-era homes.
Wrought iron gates and fences were popular fixtures in Victorian-era homes.

Antique examples of this ironwork can still be seen on window grates, balconies, doors, and other architectural elements from as far back as the Romans. This ancient, royal decor from before the 18th century was made out of iron created in a charcoal fire. Not until "puddled" iron was possible through mass production did the metal become popular among common people. In the 21st century, Britain's blacksmiths are experiencing a renaissance with supplies from scrap metal.

Marked by brittleness and perfect symmetry, most ironwork is actually cast iron.
Marked by brittleness and perfect symmetry, most ironwork is actually cast iron.

In the design world, "wrought iron" increasingly refers to a style of metalwork that hearkens back to the heyday of scrolls and curlicues from the Iron Age through Medieval times and into the Protestant Reformation. These ornamental items are distinguished by their twists and turns that give them an attractive shape. Inexpensive accessories, such as candleholders, lamps, and plant stands, decorate many contemporary homes. Most of this ironwork is actually cast iron, and can be identified by brittleness and perfect symmetry, since it is made out of a mold.

Discussion Comments

jholcomb

Any of the old Southern cities have those gorgeous wrought iron balconies. Savannah is another nice place to see wrought iron designs. I went to college near there and would always see architecture and design students going around sketching people's gates or balconies to get inspirations for their own designs.

ElizaBennett

New Orleans has some beautiful wrought iron railings, especially on balconies in the French Quarter. You can also see some very fancy cast iron--think a fence made to look like ears of corn--so it's a nice place to see the difference. I used to like the fancy cast iron when I was a teenager, but when I went back as an adult, I liked the more geometric wrought iron railings better.

anon7044

thanks for the info-very helpful

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    • Wrought iron gates and fences were popular fixtures in Victorian-era homes.
      By: Swet
      Wrought iron gates and fences were popular fixtures in Victorian-era homes.
    • Marked by brittleness and perfect symmetry, most ironwork is actually cast iron.
      By: Oleksiy Mark
      Marked by brittleness and perfect symmetry, most ironwork is actually cast iron.
    • The 21st century has brought an influx of work back to Britain's blacksmiths.
      By: kyslynskyy
      The 21st century has brought an influx of work back to Britain's blacksmiths.
    • Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.
      By: Horticulture
      Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.