Antique Victorian garden bench. Cast iron, casting, painting, wood. Europe, 19th century.Antique cast metal items were popular in the 19th - early 20th centuries. They are still valued by collectors for their uniqueness, elegance, epochal significance, and, of course, for durability and practicality. Such items are quite rare, are in good condition, and have antique value. Benches and garden furniture sets were often decorated with heraldry, popular classical elements that served as the personification of the noble origin of the family and perpetuated the stories of many noble families and mansions.