An andiron is a piece of iron that holds up logs as they burn in a fireplace. Andirons were invented before the 16th century, and gradually became more instrumental as a kitchen and living room assistant before the introduction of electricity.

The primary purpose is to hold the logs above the starter flame, so they will catch fire without smothering the starter flame. They also separate the ash from the wood for easy cleaning.

However, these items have a number of other uses. In pre-electric kitchens, for instance, they were manufactured with hooks and holders. The hooks enabled cooks to keep kettles warm, while the holders warm bowls of porridge or stew. A hook over the fire would also bring a kettle to boil, or heat up food in a heavy pot. Later on, a spit would be built into this item so the cook could roast meat above the fire.

In homes with separate fireplaces, living room andirons were more decorative. The two halves of this item are connected with an upright guard. In wealthier homes, this guard is decorated with such various decorations and creatures. Sphinxes are one type of creature engraved into them; dogs are another. In fact, dogs were such a common decoration that a slang term for this item is firedog.

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