Of all the fixtures you can have in your home, few can match the
amazing history or the luxurious allure of a real clawfoot tub. Unlike
other so-called traditional products, the clawfoot tub has a very
interesting story to tell.history of the clawfoot tubDating back to the
approximate time of the Trojan War, the first bathtub of similar design
was in use on the Greek Island of Crete, no doubt property of very
influential people. Carefully formed of hard pottery, that early
discovery was about 5 feet long.Fast forward a few millennia to the mid
to late 1800’s. Americans were becoming quite adept at the process of
forming cast iron. When a system was developed to coat the cast iron
with hard enamel, the “modern day” version of the clawfoot tub was
introduced to American homes.As overall advances in plumbing and water
distribution marched forward, the clawfoot tub designs became
increasingly diverse and beautiful. The style enjoyed great popularity,
especially when the full bathroom became standard in post World War 1
homes.Vintage bath fixtures The
run of success of the clawfoot tub continued until the introduction of
the “built-in” tub in the thirties and forties. The design which we now
think of as a “standard” bathtub.One of the most interesting aspects of
clawfoot tubs is how many styles there actually are! The choices are
nearly endless and involve options for every conceivable component of
the tub and faucet. The best way to approach these choices is from the
bottom up.
The singular feature that unites all true clawfoot tubs is the feet themselves.Lanyard Strap Often
detailed with carvings and designs cast right into the part itself,
it’s not difficult to see where the name clawfoot comes from. Options
for the feet involve color, finish, detail, and material, with some
still being made of cast-iron. But one fact is sure, to be called a
clawfoot, there must be feet!Very similar to a clawfoot tub in overall
design, there are also options that rest on a pedestal, hence the name
for them “pedestal tubs”.Unlike built-in tubs, clawfoot tubs have always
been very central in the design of the bathing area. This visual
prominence, combined with the practical usage improvements in the
design, resulted in a great deal of attention being paid to the shape of
clawfoot tubs, and there are many.a modern clawfoot tubModern
manufacturing and design processes have even more greatly increased the
usability and creative options available to clawfoot tub buyers.Clawfoot
tubs are now offered in a variety of construction materials. The
original cast-iron is still available and is a wonderful choice.
Sometimes the cost of cast iron and the challenge of installing
something so heavy lead buyers to consider acrylic which looks the same
at a reduced cost and significantly lower weight. Other materials such
as steel and porcelain are also available, though less common.
The
range of accessory choices available is even more dramatic. Faucets are
available in designs ranging from authentic reproductions to modern
originals, in every conceivable metal finish and handle style. Even
handheld showerheads can be added for a more useful and luxurious bath
experience.If a tub alone isn’t sufficient and a stand-up shower is
needed, there are options for that as well. Showerheads can be
accommodated on beautifully finished hardware and exposed plumbing.
Ceiling mount shower heads can also be included in the design. The
addition of a shower curtain bar, some of which are quite beautiful,
finishes off the assembly and a full service shower results.With such an
amazing history that no other tub can even come close to matching,
clawfoot tubs add a real story to a bathroom design. Combine this with
the amazing array of design options and the vast selection of features
and accessories,crystal light and you’ve got a bath fixture that will continue to please and impress for many years to come.
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