MMA Leaf trivet

The Metropolitan Museum of Art sold reproductions of several antique figural designs in their MMA Museum Gift Shop in New York City, circa 1960s. These trivets were marked © MMA on the reverse.

Two other MMA reproductions have been previously discussed:

● Ned the Dog features leaves and branches, the silhouette of a hunting dog, and a heart shaped handle.
● The fabulous Fly trivet is amazingly detailed and is one of my favorites.

The MMA leaf trivet is a modern reproduction of the original design documented on p. 122 of the book “Trivets & Stands.” The measurements of the original trivet are quoted in T&S as 8 1/2″ x 4 3/16″ with three 3/4″ feet.

Note that the reproduction is one size smaller. Antique trivets were often used as patterns. Any resulting reproductions would be slightly smaller due to the shrinkage of molten metal after cooling. Cast iron shrinks 1/8″ (2/16″) per foot; brass and copper shrinks 3/16″ per foot. Also, the repro has four feet.

Details of the MMA Leaf reproduction:

● Cast iron, 8 1/8″ x 4″ with four 5/8″ feet.
● Weight = 12 3/4 ounces.
● On reverse: © MMA.
● Condition: mint in the original box.

This is the first MMA trivet that I’ve seen in its original box. Measuring 6 1/2″ square, the gold colored cardboard presentation box is intact but shows its age.

In comparison, here’s an example of the original antique trivet from my collection. There is a slight inward tilt to the legs, commensurate with age. There’s also a small chip to the side of the handle, most noticeable on the reverse.

Details of the antique trivet:

● Cast iron, 8 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ with four 1 3/8″ legs.
● Weight = 1 pound.
● On reverse: round sprue mark above handle area.

Update 3/17/2023 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City produced a nicely cast reproduction of the “Good Luck For Us All” trivet. Sold in their gift shops in 1960s, that cast iron trivet is signed © MMA on the reverse. See the blog post The Frank Sahd Trivet.