This is an outstanding and high-quality late Victorian or Edwardian fireplace fender, constructed with a hardwood frame fully clad in hand tooled brass sheeting.
The brass surface is richly textured with hand-hammered dimples and tooling mark, an intentional hallmark of the Arts and Crafts or Gothic Revival styles. Decorative pressed brass appliqués adorn both ends, with symmetrical rosette emblems set into the top corners and repeated along the outer face.
The central bar is slightly indented to accommodate hearth projections, a practical feature found in many period fireplaces. Visible rivets and pressed borders contribute to a medieval, armour like aesthetic, reflecting the early 20th-century fascination with craftsmanship and Gothic romanticism.
This piece is structurally solid with no warping or distortion. The brass sheeting has developed a naturally aged patina with mild tarnishing and faint surface abrasions, consistent with its age and adding to its authentic vintage character. The embossed patterns remain crisp and raised, with no dents or breaks in the detailed areas. The hardwood substrate adds weight and stability, enhancing the quality feel of the piece.
The combination of embossed brass work, riveted detail, and symmetrical design makes this a standout example of functional decorative art from its era. Few fenders of this type survive intact with their original hand-tooled brass cladding and such well-preserved surface detail.
Please refer to the photographs for a closer look at the details and view the overall condition. Feel free to message with any questions.
Height 16 cm
Width 130 cm, internal 122 cm
Depth 35 cm, internal 30 cm
