JSG ESTATE LIQUIDATION

This is a fascinating and rare cast iron 'Animal Puzzle Mold,' as clearly marked in raised lettering on the bottom handle arch of the piece. The mold is double-sided, with each face featuring a densely packed, interlocking puzzle-like arrangement of highly detailed relief-cast animals including horses, pigs, bears, lions, rabbits, dogs, birds, and other farm and wildlife figures — all fitting together in a jigsaw-style composition. The rectangular form features decorative scroll handles on all four sides (two on the long sides, two loop handles on the short ends), and the two halves are held together by two visible rivets or bolts at the bottom handle. Construction is heavy cast iron with a dark bronze-brown seasoned patina typical of well-used antique cookware or confectionery molds. The piece measures approximately 10 inches long by 6.5 inches wide and is substantial in weight. This type of novelty puzzle mold was produced in the late 19th to early 20th century and was used to cast chocolate, hard candy, gelatin, or ice cream into individual animal-shaped pieces that could be separated like puzzle pieces — a popular Victorian and Edwardian-era confectionery novelty. These molds are highly sought after by cast iron collectors, antique kitchen collectors, and candy mold enthusiasts. Condition is Very Good for its age; the casting detail remains crisp and well-defined throughout both faces, with honest dark patina and minor surface oxidation consistent with age and use, no cracks or breaks detected, and the rivet hardware appears intact and secure.