Historical information

These charcoal irons were widely used in the 19th and early 20th centuries before electric irons became common. They were heated by placing burning charcoal or heated metal slugs inside the chamber. The chimney or vent helped expel excess heat and smoke, making them more efficient than solid cast-iron models that had to be heated directly on a stove.
Such irons were commonly found in households, laundries, and tailors' workshops, playing a crucial role in maintaining well-pressed clothing before modern electric appliances.

Physical description

The image shows two antique charcoal or box irons, both made of heavy cast iron with a hollow chamber for heating elements. These were used in the 19th and early 20th centuries before electric irons became widespread.
Both irons have a square base with a hinged lid, which allowed for the insertion of hot coals, charcoal, or heated metal slugs to generate heat.
The handles are made of wood and metal, designed to reduce heat transfer to the user's hand.
The spouts or chimneys at the back allow heat and smoke to escape while the iron is in use.
One of the irons features decorative engravings on the spout, indicating that it may have been a higher-end model.
Both irons are heavily rusted and show signs of wear, but their structures remain intact.