Cast iron…I think??

I have what I am almost certain are cast iron stove legs (i.e. candle sticks for my home ; -).

I examined them a bit more closely as I puzzled over the best way to clean them and noticed some worn areas that looked gold in color.

Any ideas why that would be?

My goal is to clean the dirt off but preserve the lovely brown patina.

 

Then fine wire brush with a light pressure. Is the "Lovely Brown" you state dirt or rust?
Of course cast Iron - can you see a parting line? Like the one in your last pic running across the base. The guy in the foundry cleaning room should have been fired for not grinding down that casting flash - LOL!

 

You never have to guess about cast iron - check it with a magnet.

 

Well I feel a little silly for not thinking of this : -) Thank you! A magnet does stick to it.

I’m still a little puzzled about the gold color but maybe it was painted at one point.