Antique French Fireback. Firebacks have been used in various forms for hundreds of years and have always had two important functions: (a) It protects the back side of the fire against bursts and other damages. (b)The thick iron keeps the heat that would otherwise be lost and radiates this heat back into the room. A fireback thus works like a radiator, increasing the efficiency of the fire. The figure of St. Heloi, patron saint of blacksmiths and silversmiths is shown in relief. France, Ca. 1875.
St. Heloi fireback (C667). Dimensions: 28.5”H x 21.5”W x .25”D. Shipping: $20.