Garden Bench in Wood and Wrought Iron, Italy 19th Century

This rare garden bench was made in Italy in the 19th century.
Its structure is in wrought iron. The seat consists of two adjoining wooden planks, while the backrest, slightly inclined for comfort, features a wooden board supported by iron elements. This distinctive backrest can be folded over, allowing for reversible seating depending on the direction of sunlight.
The bench’s legs display a graceful, flowing design, with circular iron motifs that connect at the midpoint and between the two foot supports. From the sides of the seat extend other sinuous iron elements converging toward the center, where the frame supporting the canopy is fixed. The canopy is covered with white and yellow striped fabric with valances on both sides. It is retractable, operated by a reel mechanism that allows for partial opening or complete closure.
Wrought iron is considered the finest material for outdoor use thanks to its durability, visual lightness, and versatility compared to other metals. The term “wrought” refers to hand-worked iron, unlike cast iron, which is shaped in molds. Handcrafted wrought iron furniture is distinguished by its characteristically airy and refined appearance.
Extremely rare on the antiques market, this bench is an outdoor piece capable of lending elegance and sophistication to settings such as porticoes, gardens, or terraces, while still perfectly functional for moments of rest and tranquility.

Dimensions: H 241 x W 207 x D 60 cm; Seat height 50 cm