Wrought iron has been used for thousands of years, dating back to the Iron Age. It is a tough, malleable iron that can be heated and hammered into various shapes. Wrought iron was widely used for weapons, tools, and armor in ancient times.
During the Middle Ages, wrought iron became a popular building material for gates, fences, and other decorative elements. This continued through the 18th and 19th centuries when wrought iron was used extensively in the construction of bridges, railings, and other large structures.
Cast iron, on the other hand, was first produced in China during the 5th century BC. It was not widely used in Europe until the 14th century when it was used for cannonballs and other military applications.
By the 18th century, cast iron had become a popular building material. It was used for everything from street lamps to columns in grand buildings. Cast iron was also used extensively in the construction of bridges, as it was strong and durable.
In the 19th century, the production of both wrought and cast iron increased dramatically with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The Bessemer process, developed in the mid-19th century, made it possible to produce large quantities of steel, which eventually replaced both wrought and cast iron as the preferred building material.
Today, wrought and cast iron are primarily used for decorative purposes. Wrought iron is often used for gates, fences, and other ornamental elements, while cast iron is commonly used for garden furniture and other decorative objects. Both wrought and cast iron have a timeless appeal and are appreciated for their durability and unique aesthetic qualities.