Is there an old charcoal iron under that ribbon?

Today I’d like to show off another interesting thrift store find that’s on the list to be fixed up. “Fixed up” is good term since I have no idea how to do this, and restoration implies a plan or expectation of a good result.

So, I believe this is an antique charcoal iron that has been painted to serve as a home décor item. The metal and wooden handle have been painted, and ribbon and fabric has been glued to the iron. Here is a similar, unaltered iron. If you would like to read more about charcoal irons, check out Oldandinteresting.com.

closeup of old charcoal iron

lid of old charcoal iron

The rooster at the front of the iron is actually a lever that holds the iron closed. The iron would hold hot coals, allowing it to stay warm and be used longer than previous irons. These were solid and would be heated, and once cool would have to be heated up again. The coals, along with the vents on the side of the iron, kept the iron hot longer.

Of course, it could also be a reproduction. This seems like an odd item to reproduce or fake, but it’s always possible. Either way it’s an interesting piece that I look forward to experimenting on.

How do I remove the paint? I put a thick poultice of dish soap and water on the ribbon for a few hours, trying to dissolve the glue, but it didn’t really work. I tried scratching the paint and ribbon, but it seemed too harsh on the metal.