This is an impressive and very unusual late 18th century wrought iron firegrate, with shaped front and back with strapwork, supported on pair of polished wrought iron firedogs. The fret of S-shape design with scrolls to end. The barley twist tops with round finials. A most interesting piece.
The role of a firegrate in an open fireplace is threefold:
On the practical side, it helps contain the solid fuel used, be coal or logs, preventing them from spilling out onto the hearth. They can also be adapted to hold gas fuel burner
A grate also provides air flow from underneath the logs, which does tend to burn the wood more quickly, but does provide a large flame picture in the process.
A grate can enhance the appearance of a fireplace significantly. Cast iron is a material that works nicely in this situation as you can have many varied shapes & designs can easily be cast. Cast iron is a very practical material for a fireplace grate, as it takes the high temperatures generated in these fireplaces that can quickly burn out a lessor steel design As cast grate enhances the appearance of a fireplace even when it is not burning, hiding and containing what would be a pile of ash.
To find out more about this piece please visit our website where you can view it & many other rare & unusual marbles.