Asbestos Sad Iron No. 72-B
Decorative Art / Antique Industrial Personal Care Appliance • Tover Mfg. Co. (attributed provider of 'Asbestos' brand irons) or Dover Manufacturing Company
Style & Movement
Industrial Age / Vernacular Americana
Medium & Technique
Cast iron with core-sand casting technique; originally intended to contain an asbestos lining for heat insulation
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th Century (circa 1890-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6 x 3.5 inches; pointed oval (sad iron) format
Subject Description
An oval-shaped, heavy metal 'sad iron' base featuring embossed lettering 'ASBESTOS 72-B SAD IRON'. Used for pressing clothes, designed to hold heat while protecting the user's hand.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; significant oxidation and surface rust consistent with age and storage
Estimated Market Value
USD $20.00 - $45.00
Auction Estimate
USD $15.00 - $30.00
Provenance History
Mass-produced industrial object; likely household utility provenance from a North American domestic setting
Art Historical Significance
Represents the evolution of domestic technology and the early industrial use of hazardous materials for insulation prior to modern safety standards
Notable Features
Distinctive embossed bold typography; the inclusion of 'ASBESTOS' in the brand name reflects a period when the material was marketed for its high-performance heat-shielding properties
Condition Issues
Surface corrosion, pitting of the iron, loss of original finish or handle, potential trace hazardous material (asbestos) if lining is present
Conservation Recommendations
Rust stabilization, dry storage in low humidity, and careful handling due to the labeled presence of asbestos