When compared to later creations, cast iron firebacks of the 16th and 17th centuries featured fewer decorative motifs; people were less concerned about aesthetics than they were about the functional use, which not only protected the back of the fireplace from soot damage but also helped reflect the heat back into sitting rooms. Ours dates to the 1600s and is one of the earlier examples of a French cast iron fireback.

The thick roughly square fireback has thin protruding molding on all sides (except the bottom), even adding depth to the angular top corners. Near the top of the main body is a pair of shaped escutcheons with a chevron charge on each. These coat of arms flank a highly scrolled and banded arabesque, providing a stylized heraldic display. The stour fireback is dark brown, with a lighter patina mainly at the bottom that gives sections of the iron an orange hue. A perfect addition to any fireplace, the 17th-century cast iron fireback can also be used as a unique backsplash for a kitchen range top or inset into a wall as a decorative architectural.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Superficial age separation on the left side. The fireback is strong and sturdy, with commensurate oxidation and buildup.