Hearth trivet

A hearth trivet, called brannfot or brannjern in Norwegian, is a low iron stand supporting a baking plate, frying pan or other cooking vessel above an open hearth fire. Common forms are round or triangular with three legs. It belongs to the equipment used around an open fireplace.

Both forged and cast examples occur. A trivet supports a vessel from below, whereas a pot hanger suspends pots and kettles. Høvåg Museum documents hearth stands with a baking plate and with a pan used to heat smoothing irons. An isolated stand therefore cannot identify its exact former task.

Useful catalogue details include height, overall dimensions, leg arrangement and shape of the supporting surface. Photograph joints, underside and any marks. Record cracks, worn feet and later welding. A forged surface alone cannot name a local smith, while soot cannot establish a reliable date. Distinguish a hearth support from a small table trivet by considering construction, dimensions and documented use together rather than relying on a single feature.

Sources: Audun Dybdahl: Brannfot, Store norske leksikon; Høvåg museum: brannjern ved bakst og strykejern.