What is a club fender?

A club fender is a hearth guard that incorporates low upholstered seats at either side. These allowed people to sit close to the fire for warmth. They emerged in nineteenth-century interiors and often feature leather cushions supported by brass and steel frames.

How do I measure for a fender?

You measure the width and depth of your hearth stone to ensure the guard fits the perimeter. Extending models offer flexibility if exact dimensions vary. Allow clearance for fire irons and ensure the guard sits securely on the floor.

How do I clean antique brass?

You clean antique brass gently to preserve the patination accumulated over decades of use. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that strip the historic surface. A soft cloth and mild soap solution suffice for general maintenance of polished or gilded metal.

Are these fenders adjustable?

Many nineteenth and twentieth-century fenders include extending mechanisms. These allowed the width to be modified for different hearth sizes. Adjustable examples often feature sliding rail sections secured with internal bolts.