How do I clean a gilt bronze fire screen?

Dust gently with a soft dry cloth to prevent the accumulation of soot and grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners or chemical polishes, as these can strip away historic ormolu and gilt surfaces.

Are these hearth guards suitable for active fires?

Many screens incorporate steel or wire mesh specifically to catch sparks while a fire burns. Heavier cast fenders and chenets primarily frame the hearth and support logs rather than serving as protective barriers.

How do I distinguish Louis XV style from Louis XVI style?

Louis XV style pieces display asymmetrical scrolls, naturalistic foliage, and flowing rococo curves. Louis XVI pieces introduce neoclassical symmetry, straight architectural lines, classical urns, and formal trophies.

Can adjustable fenders fit any fireplace?

Adjustable fenders feature sliding sections that expand or contract to accommodate standard hearth widths. Careful measurement of your hearth opening ensures the guard sits properly between the surround and the floor.