What is a pole screen used for?

A pole screen was placed near an open fireplace to protect the sitter's face from the intense radiant heat of the coal fire. The sliding panel could be raised or lowered to match the height of the face. Over time, many of these pieces were repurposed as decorative items, candle shields, or converted into table lamps while retaining their distinctive adjustable height mechanism.

How do I adjust the screen height?

The central panel is mounted on a collar that slides vertically along the wooden pole. Friction or a thumbscrew mechanism holds the shield at the chosen level. Original mechanisms require gentle handling to avoid straining the brass fittings and the surrounding timber shaft.

What woods were used for these screens?

Cabinetmakers primarily utilised dense hardwoods such as mahogany and rosewood for the poles and weighted bases. These heavy timbers ensured the tall stand remained stable on the floor. Secondary woods may appear in concealed areas, whilst brass components provide the structural sliding collars and decorative accents.

How can I tell the period?

Dating relies on the prevailing style of the woodwork, such as Regency classical lines or heavy Victorian proportions. The turning of the base and the style of the brass fittings offer further clues. Needlepoint and tapestry panels often reflect the textile fashion of the manufacturing era, ranging from Georgian prints to mid-nineteenth-century embroidery.

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Vintage Pole Screen

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These vintage pole screen pieces are ingenious adjustable heat reflectors and tapestry shields that keep a gentleman's face from scorching by the hearth.

19th century

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Days Patent Candle Shield

From Tigers Decorative

£245

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lighting

Interesting and Unusual Converted Lamp Table.

19th century

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Interesting and Unusual Converted Lamp Table.

From Rupert Hitchcox Antiques

£265

FOR SALE

lighting

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Days Patent Candle Shield

Interesting and Unusual Converted Lamp Table.

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