Italian folding gilt bronze fire screen, 1940s

Vintage fire screen, fireplace screen, foldable 4 panels, gilded bronze and brass, neoclassical, 1940s, Italian. This vintage item has been gently cleaned while respecting the patina of aging and is ready to use. This mid-century Italian firescreen has a modernist design and neoclassical scrollwork patterns, making it light and elegant. It is stamped “made in Italy” on the back of each panel. It would make a smart finishing detail for a range of interiors such as traditional, country, art deco, Hollywood regency, 70s glamour, shabby chic or contemporary. Structurally, the quality frame is crafted from solid gilded bronze and brass with great attention to detail. Four multi-part folding panels are bolted together by pivot hinges. Each is composed of a tubular column connected by rotating segments at the top and bottom, and finished with a round decorative finial. These tips at the bottom become the feet. The clever and practical system allows all four panels to rotate completely in either direction, allowing the fire screen to be placed in different positions. The hole structure is well built, with good weight and very stable. The frame of each rectangular panel has a reed effect to the front, with 3 straight sides and a wavy pattern at the top, where a folding scroll handle is attached to the back of the 2 outer panels. The exterior trim is flat and simple, emphasizing the modernist neoclassical form. Inside the frame is a quality black wire mesh held securely in place on the reverse by the flat bronze frame. This firewall is in very good vintage condition. The frame is strong and sturdy, with no missing or broken parts. The original clear lacquer is present on the gilded bronze surfaces. The polished brass finish features a warm patina developed over the years with minor rubbing and tiny marks. The black wire mesh is in very good condition with no damage and only small minor marks and rubbing consistent with age and wear.

Ref. : 36BDPU6G