Arts and Crafts Copper Fire Surround Fender Antique Fireplace Guard c1900s Embossed Floral Art Nouveau

This superb antique copper fireplace fender dates to the Arts and Crafts period of the early 20th century, around the 1900s, and is a wonderful example of the movement’s dedication to handcrafted quality, honest materials, and decorative yet functional design. It is constructed from heavy-gauge copper sheet with a hand-hammered finish, giving the surface a rich, dappled texture that catches and reflects the light beautifully. The front panel is adorned with an embossed scrolling floral motif—stylised in the organic, flowing lines typical of the era—which was likely pressed or chased by hand, a process that gives the decoration a subtle irregularity and charm impossible to replicate with modern mass production.

The copper sheet is wrapped around a wooden carcass which has a tin sheet to the upright back and sides.

The copper has aged gracefully over well more than a century, developing a deep, warm patina with natural darkening to the recessed areas and greenish verdigris within the fine texturing. These tonal variations not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a tangible sense of history and authenticity. The piece is formed into a practical low guard with two angled returns designed to hug the sides of a fireplace hearth, helping to protect surrounding floors, rugs, and skirting boards from stray sparks and embers while adding a refined, decorative frame to the fireplace opening. The underside retains its original darker finish from years of use, and the interior shows traces of the heat exposure expected from genuine period service.

Condition is very good for its age, with the structure remaining sturdy and without repairs. There are small surface marks, gentle ripples from hand-working, and slight wear to the high points of the embossed pattern, all of which are consistent with its age and contribute to its antique character. It remains entirely functional for its original purpose, yet it could also be creatively repurposed in a modern setting—perhaps as a low decorative border for a display area, a raised edging for a hearth in a woodburner installation, or even as a base frame for a bespoke piece of furniture. This fender would suit a late Victorian, Edwardian, or Arts and Crafts interior perfectly, but its striking design means it would also provide a compelling, conversation-starting accent in a contemporary home.
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 6.5 cm
Width 103 cm, internal 91 cm
Depth 32 cm, internal 25 cm