Another beautiful ‘Hound and Serpent ’ cast iron garden seat that we have fully restored. This famous design, sometimes referred to the Serpent and Grape, features hound head terminals to the arms of the supports, which incorporate a curled serpent entwined with a grapevine, the snakes’ wide-open mouth about to pluck a grape from the vine. The supports stand on elaborate stylized paw feet. British Benches bought the pair of bench supports which were in perfect condition for their age with no damage or losses to the castings. The metal was cleaned up and given three coats of metal paint in Moss Green RAL 6005 The seating slats are made from European Oak, planed and given a slight edge chamfer. They are secured with stainless steel carriage bolts and treated with Osmo water resistant and UV protective oil. There is no need for a lateral restraint bar, nor a mid backrest on this pattern as the thickness of the hardwood and double bolted connections ensure perfect rigidity and strength.

This particular bench has no diamond mark or pattern number and the foundry is unknown but for all intents and purposes it appears to be like its famous counterpart. British Benches have taken that into consideration when setting the price. Notwithstanding that, this particular bench is very heavy, its in fantastic condition and will last lifetimes if looked after. It could grace any garden and whilst we cannot demonstrate that it is a Coalbrookdale casting it is an excellent piece of foundry work and would be good investment for the future.

British Benches is an independent restorer of authentic, historic castings and are not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any foundry.