Victorian Rococo Revival Cast Iron Fireplace Surround, 1897

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A magnificent and highly decorative antique victorian cast iron fireplace surround, dating to 1897 and designed in the elaborate rococo … Read more A magnificent and highly decorative antique victorian cast iron fireplace surround, dating to 1897 and designed in the elaborate rococo revival taste. The surround features an elegant serpentine breakfront mantel shelf above a richly ornamented frieze decorated with scrolling acanthus leaves and centred by a prominent shell-form cartouche. The combination of flowing curves, naturalistic foliage and sculptural ornament gives the fireplace an impressive architectural presence. The substantial uprights incorporate decorative cast panels enriched with foliate motifs, demonstrating the quality and crispness of late victorian cast iron production. The elaborate decoration draws inspiration from 18th-century rococo design while retaining the robust proportions characteristic of victorian architectural ironwork. Reclaimed from a period property in windsor, england, the surround retains a registration number dating the design to 1897, providing an important historical reference for the piece. The fireplace is presented in good, solid, unrestored painted condition, retaining the character and surface associated with its age and architectural use. Its unrefurbished state also provides the opportunity for the purchaser to retain the existing aged finish or restore the cast iron according to the requirements of the intended interior. An impressive example of late victorian architectural design, combining elaborate rococo revival ornament, substantial proportions and documented 1897 dating. A striking focal point for a period property, drawing room, reception room or sophisticated traditional interior. Approx measurements: total height: 52.75" / (1340mm) mantel width: 69.5" / (1765mm) mantel depth: 10.5" / (265mm) to 12.5" / (320mm) width at feet: 63.5" / (1615mm) opening height: 37.5" / (950mm) opening width: 37.25" / (945mm) See less