Cast Iron Sundial Pedestal

In the 19th century a trend developed in Britain and America towards a more affordable alternative to bronze. Cast iron became this alternative material and was responsible for the first garden art to be mass-produced for the middle class. Everything from fountains and statues to urns were popular. Although affordable, the trade off with cast iron is that it rusts. Of course these days, the rust finish in garden art has a large following and is an important part of the French country and the shabby chic look. Each base has been painted to prevent oxidation, but will need to be tended eventually to stave off rust.