Indian Cast Iron Architectural Bracket

Scrolls and leaves hold up the shelf, and a little finial stands guard.

This architectural bracket is from India and dates to the early 20th century. It is cast iron. Cast iron brackets became a standard way to hold up balconies, shelves and eaves, and their pierced scrollwork was often a way to save metal while adding decoration. This one is a right angled triangle filled with swirling vines and a central leaf. A small knob finial rises at the front, and screw holes pierce the flat base. The surface is dark and slightly rusted. It is 19.75 inches wide, 3 deep and 19 high.

Strong enough for the job, fancy enough to be noticed.