Antique brass firewood log holder and tote on four paw feet. With adjustable handle.

Size With Handle Down: 15 x 21 x 12 1/2 in. 

Size With Handle Up: 15 x 21 x 18 1/2 in. 

#2364 . 

Log holders, storers, or totes are objects used to hold the logs for safekeeping that will go into a fireplace. In ancient times, logs were usually simply gathered from a woodpile outside, or set against the side of the fireplace for ease of access. With the development of metal casting around 4000 BC, an endless variety of devices and objects to increase daily conveniences appeared, and around 500 BC the appearance of brass allowed for more stylistic and elegant designs. Stone log holders were excavated from archaeological sites in northern Siberia dating back to the Neolithic Period, and by the end of the Dark Ages in Europe an entire set of tools and items associated with fireplaces and furnaces had appeared. The adjustable handle at the top of it is a specific innovation appearing at an indeterminate point, although they became extremely common during the Renaissance as ornamentation began to overshadow mere functionality, allowing one to carry firewood from one place to another in style. Although they have never served as significant a purpose as andirons, fire fenders, or fire pokers, log holders have also survived the modern day shift to gas and electric fireplaces as decorative items, and are often ornate and well-made, part of a set with other fireplace tools.

Spotting throughout. Commensurate with age.