This book documents the story and diversity of furniture made of iron, from Roman examples to Art Nouveau. It was, however, in the 19th century that iron furniture was in the forefront of early industrial production, and this period is highlighted here. Iron seemed suitable for everything - from railway lines to steam kettles, jewellery and furniture.

Beds, chairs, tables, benches and small items of furniture made of cast iron, the most modern and versatile material of its time, were available thanks to its durability and low price. The art-historical development of iron furniture has long been neglected and this book offers a systematic illustrated record of the many diverse forms featuring two major names: Karl Friedrich Schinkel of Germany and Christopher Dresser of the United Kingdom.

With over 460 types of iron furniture presented amongst 160 pages of illustrations, Georg Himmelheber provides furniture experts and dealers, designers and collectors with the first complete and international survey of this very popular furniture. This book is also an important contribution to the cultural history of the 19th century.