What is a 19th-century French fireplace fender?

A fireplace fender is a low barrier constructed from metal, designed to surround a open hearth and retain coals or embers. During the 19th century in France, these items evolved into ornate decorative elements featuring classic figural motifs, sculptural elements, and gilding.

What materials were traditionally used in 19th-century French hearth curbs?

These pieces were typically constructed using cast iron or wrought iron for structural weight, often accented with cast bronze, brass rails, or gilded ormolu mounts to add decorative contrast.

How can you identify authentic 19th-century bronze fireplace accessories?

Authentic period examples feature hand-chased bronze work, heavy cast bases, threaded rod assemblies beneath, and natural surface patination or subtle oxidisation rather than electroplated metal finishes.

How do you style an antique fireplace fender in a modern interior?

Place the fender directly on the hearth surface surrounding the base of an open fireplace or stove. The combination of dark patinated metal and gilt detailing creates visual balance alongside both modern and traditional mantlepieces.

How should patinated bronze and brass fire accessories be maintained?

Remove dust regularly with a soft, dry lint-free cloth. Avoid chemical solvents or abrasive metal polishes on patinated bronze surfaces, and apply specialised brass paste sparingly only to unpatinated solid brass rails.

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French Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century

Name: French Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1205231
Price: 1500 GBP
Availability: InStock

19th century

For Sale by Pyrontique

Description

French Second Empire Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century

A striking and sculptural French Empire period fireplace fender, featuring finely cast elegant bronze greyhounds.

Dating from the 19th century, the design reflects the classical influences of the Empire style with strong lines and ornate decoration.

The fender is constructed with a front rail and decorative end supports with greyhound dogs sitting on top of each plinth end.

The plinths of the fender are decorated with bronze floral motifs and the central bronze bar is decorated with acanthus leaves.

The warm tones of the bronze contrast subtly with the darker structure, creating visual depth in front of a fireplace.

Originally intended to frame and protect the hearth, the plinths at each end can be opened to accommodate different sized fire places. This piece today serves equally well as a decorative focal point.

The fender has been checked over and lightly cleaned in our workshop. It remains in very good antique condition.

Height: 19.5 cm

Width: 96 cm

Width (fully open): 112 cm

Depth: 9 cm

International Shipping Information

• Available for UK, EU & USA shipping with full customs documentation

• Professionally packed for secure delivery

Delivery will be in the region of £50 to England and Wales. For any other locations, please contact us for a quote.

Physical Dimensions

Height

19.5cm (7.68")

Width

96cm (37.80")

Depth

9cm (3.54")

Declaration

Pyrontique has dated this Bronze Greyhound Fireplace Fender to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1205231

Dealers Internal Reference

1623

Dealers Notes

French Antiques and Objets d'art

We specialise in French antiques and work with interior designers, trade and retail in the UK and worldwide. Every piece is examined and restored when necessary to a very high standard by a professionally trained restorer with years of experience.

We have an online store and viewing in person is unfortunately not an option. If you wish to return an item please send us written notification within 48 hours of receipt. Returns can be made up to 14 days after delivery. The item must be returned in the same condition as it left and a full refund less any delivery and return delivery costs incurred by us will be issued.

Packing and Delivery

We ship larger pieces, such as tables and washstands, with specialised couriers and smaller pieces, such as sculptures and lights, with FedEx or the post.

We take great care to ensure that our pieces are well-packaged for transport. Deliveries take on average between 1 week and 3 weeks (possibly longer, depending on your location, times of year and any other factors).

We have stock in Kent and France and can provide quotes to deliver from both stores. Should a piece need importing from France, the price would be DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to include shipping, UK import VAT and customs clearance; there are no hidden costs. Please contact us by email or Whatsapp Link if you need a quote.

Payment

We accept payment by bank transfer, credit card, debit card or PayPal in either Sterling or Euros. If you purchase through Selling Antiques you can either request a delivery quote from us before payment or we will add this once we receive confirmation of your purchase.

General Information

As with all antiques, there may be small normal signs of wear and tear due to the age of a piece and its history. We aim to describe our pieces accurately – please ask for more description and photos if you would like more information. You can see our ranges, important information and terms and conditions on our website www.pyrontique.com.

Description

French Second Empire Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century

“

A striking and sculptural French Empire period fireplace fender, featuring finely cast elegant bronze greyhounds.

Pyrontique

Dating from the 19th century, the design reflects the classical influences of the Empire style with strong lines and ornate decoration.

fig 1. A 19th-century French fireplace fender featuring dark patinated metal greyhound sculptures resting on bases on either side of a polished brass rail with central gold-toned foliate detailing. — fig 1. French Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century

The fender is constructed with a front rail and decorative end supports with greyhound dogs sitting on top of each plinth end.

The plinths of the fender are decorated with bronze floral motifs and the central bronze bar is decorated with acanthus leaves.

fig 2. A 19th-century French fireplace fender featuring dark patinated metal greyhound sculptures resting on bases on either side of a polished brass rail with central gold-toned foliate detailing. — fig 2. French Antique Fireplace Fender with Greyhounds in Bronze – 19th Century

The warm tones of the bronze contrast subtly with the darker structure, creating visual depth in front of a fireplace.

Originally intended to frame and protect the hearth, the plinths at each end can be opened to accommodate different sized fire places. This piece today serves equally well as a decorative focal point.