Our Premier Autumn Auction | Session II | October 22, 2025
Wed, Oct 22, 2025 10:00AM EDT
Live Auction
Lot 654
Rare Cast Iron George Washington Figural Fire Back
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for
$8,000
Sold Price excludes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $100 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $200 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
probably France, late 18th century, tombstone form with relief decoration and ribbons and arms, centering a portrait of George Washington and inscribed "G. Washington. E. General. Of. The. Contin. Army. In. America", 21 x 21-1/8 in.
Provenance: sold Skinner, American Furniture & Decorative Arts, February 27, 2016, sale 2880B, lot 153; Hollis Brodrick, March 21, 2016; Tonnesen Collection, New Hampshire
Note: It is believed that the portrait of Washington was based on a medal struck in his honor in Paris in 1778, which was designed by Benjamin Franklin and Voltaire. The somewhat stylized depiction is believed to be a result of Franklin and Voltaire's inability to find a preexisting likeness of the man to copy. Only two other firebacks bearing this portrait are known, one at Historic Deerfield and the other in a private collection.
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sold Skinner, American Furniture & Decorative Arts, February 27, 2016, sale 2880B, lot 153; Hollis Brodrick, March 21, 2016; Tonnesen Collection, New Hampshire
fine overall condition with expected surface rust and pitting
Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.
