The Mexicans introduced chimineas to the world. Mexican tribesmen from forgotten ages developed the chiminea for cooking and heat. It was designed to keep rain off the fire and it was built from a resource that was readily available –clay.

Today, chimineas are built of materials other than clay including cast iron and aluminum. Admittedly, these are sturdier than clay, but there are methods of improving the latter’s strength. Among them is the seasoning of the chiminea, application of sealant to the outside and acrylic floor finish inside the firebox. If you live in colder regions, it is advisable to keep it in your garage during winter.

If you are sufficiently attracted to the old world charm of clay chimineas enough to go through the trouble of taking extra care of them, have a look at the Garden Treasures Model No. 092 Clay Chiminea.

Model No. 092 is in the old Mexican design of a bulbous firebox with a large opening for your firewood. A slender neck stretches from the top of the firebox functioning as a chimney. Smoke from the fire is thus vented at a higher level. At the same time, it also facilitates airflow for a more efficient burn.

Both the firebox and the chimney are decorated with a relief of diamonds wrapping their entire circumference. Such decoration is reminiscent of a waffle. Its colors of browns and tans reinforce the image. The chiminea is cradled on a metal stand with four legs that curve upward in a wrought iron design.

The clay chiminea stands 37 inches while its firebox has a diameter of 21 inches. With the large opening of the firebox, it can heat an area of 20 square feet.