Wrought Iron Pipe Kiln

Wrought Iron Pipe Kiln, made from hand forged iron in the shape of an open cylinder for placing in the open hearth. According to George Neumann, in his book, Early American Antique Country Furnishings, 1650-1800, p. 329, these forged iron racks were used to dry clay pipes after they had been washed. 

While the first racks, produced in the 17th and 18th centuries, were open, flat-based iron cylinders suspended by a chain from a fireplace lug pole (as shown in photo # XX, p. 329 of his book), Neumann states legs were added to an open cylindrical frame in the later 1700s. The iron rack offered here is such an example.  The rack is sturdy and heavily built.  It rests solidly on a surface and had a carrying/lifting handle that was forge welded to its top but has managed to "go missing" over the years. The rack, also called a ring spider, measures 9-1/2 inches long by 7 inches wide (to the edge of its feet) and stands 8 inches high. The rings are each 5 inches in diameter. The legs which are 3 inches high allowed the kiln to sit above the coals in the hearth.
 
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