Sold: Terrarium

Terrarium / cast iron & glass / c. 1860s

Antique Victorian cast iron and glass terrarium or aquarium, c. third quarter 19th century. Beautiful cast iron ornamentation with spiral conch shell-like finials and fleur-de-lis and cartouche figural borders. With pleasing proportions, the terrarium could hold potted plants, your own mossy miniature biosphere, or perhaps even a pet tortoise seeking high-style digs. Original wavy glass. Certainly a substantial piece, but not overly heavy. Terrariums of this period rarely survive fully intact and this is a particularly fine example ready to accomodate your creativity.

Very good antique condition for a piece of this age and fragility. The glass has a couple of hairline cracks, but remains stable. The interior originally had glass-lined corners, of which only fragments remain. Overall, a rare survivor with a handsome aged patina and character.

Measurements

2 feet long
1 foot wide
18 inches tall

Shipping

Free in the continental United States. If an international buyer, please contact me for a shipping estimate by clicking here.