{"product_id":"french-trade-weathervane-with-blacksmith-and-key-motif-circa-1920-1940-55x-351-2","title":"French Trade Weathervane with Blacksmith and Key Motif Circa 1920–1940 - 55\"x 35½\"","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA large French trade weathervane in wrought and sheet iron, the vane cut in the form of an oversized key incorporating the silhouette of a blacksmith at his anvil. The composition is set above a once-rotating compass with cardinal directions marked in French (N, E, O, and S for Nord, Est, Ouest, and Sud) and supported by hand-forged scrolling brackets. The piece combines flat-cut ironwork with fluid forged elements, creating a strong graphic presence balanced by ornamental detail. Finished in black paint, it shows a nicely weathered surface with oxidation, scattered paint loss, and minor bends to the scrolls and letters; structurally sound. France, circa 1920–1940. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThis type of trade weathervane functioned both as a wind indicator and as a sign for a locksmith or metalworker, the key motif identifying the trade while the blacksmith figure celebrates traditional craftsmanship, likely the work of the artisan himself, serving as both object and advertisement. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eWith its bold silhouette and clear narrative, it reads almost like a piece of graphic sculpture. Mounted on a custom stand, it becomes a striking focal point in both country and contemporary interiors, its strong lines and patina adding depth and character. Alternatively, returned to its original purpose and fixed to the roof of a garden house or outbuilding, it brings movement, atmosphere, and an authentic note of historic charm to an outdoor setting. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition and patina consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 55\" high x 35½\" diameter \u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 140cm high x 90cm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chez Pluie","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53313647771986,"sku":"24401","price":6295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1166\/6698\/files\/DSC01162_df9015b7-4553-45ad-82cf-c797dd55c97b.jpg?v=1777458597","url":"https:\/\/www.chezpluie.com\/products\/french-trade-weathervane-with-blacksmith-and-key-motif-circa-1920-1940-55x-351-2","provider":"Chez Pluie","version":"1.0","type":"link"}