Antique Cast Iron Hessian Soldier Doorstop Painted Military Figure 11" For Sale

Antique / Pre-Owned

Antique painted cast iron figural doorstop depicting a Hessian soldier in an 18th-century-style military uniform.

The piece retains substantial old multicolor painted decoration in red, yellow, blue, green, black and flesh tones. It shows age-related paint wear, scattered paint loss, scratches, surface oxidation, discoloration and patina consistent with an old cast iron piece.

The reverse is predominantly dark/black painted, and no definite maker's mark or manufacturer's identification was found.

Please examine all photographs carefully, including the close-ups and views of the front, back, sides and base, as they are an important part of the condition description.

Offered is an unusual antique painted cast iron Hessian soldier doorstop, featuring an 18th-century-style military figure in a walking or marching pose.

The soldier wears a colorful uniform consisting of a red coat, yellow breeches, blue knee areas, reddish-brown boots, contrasting sash and distinctive tall military headgear. Molded and painted details include the facial features, buttons, uniform trim, cuffs and boots.

The figure has substantial three-dimensional relief on the front while the reverse is essentially flat, a form commonly encountered on early figural cast iron doorstops. It stands on an integral rectangular base retaining an old dark green painted surface.

This is a particularly substantial example, weighing over 8 pounds despite measuring only approximately 11 inches tall.

One of the most appealing aspects is the old painted surface. The figure retains a considerable amount of its colorful decoration while also displaying the wear, darkening, small chips, oxidation and patination acquired over many years. It has not been cleaned or restored by me.

The figure is described as a Hessian soldier based on its distinctive 18th-century military costume and appearance. No visible manufacturer's mark was found, and I have not confirmed an attribution to a particular foundry, so the maker is listed as unknown.

An unusual piece for collectors of antique cast iron, figural doorstops, Hessian soldiers, Revolutionary War-themed pieces, military collectibles, Americana or folk art.

Height: Approx. 11 inches
Width at Base: Approx. 6.5 inches
Weight: 8 lb. 2.5 oz.

Please refer to the ruler and scale photographs as well.