Antique Late 1800s Cast Iron Sad Flatiron - Rare "No. 1 Potts Pattern" Ornate Openwork Base & Removable Handle

Originally popularized by inventor Mary Florence Potts in the late 19th century, this iconic style revolutionized laundry by introducing a double-pointed base that could iron in both directions, alongside a removable handle that remained cool while the metal base cores heated on a wood-burning stove.

Unlike solid, utilitarian iron slugs, this beautiful collector's piece features a rare, highly ornate openwork core base adorned with an elegant lattice frame. Pressing the central, spring-loaded wood-knob latch mechanism smoothly lifts the iron hood plate to fully separate the hand-turned wooden grip from the heavy base.

Wrapped in an authentic, uniform all-over rusty country primitive patina, this set is bursting with Wabi-Sabi charm. It serves as an incredible historic accent for laundry room styling, a heavy rustic desk paperweight, an industrial loft bookend, or a cabin hearth sculpture.