Dimensions
15 inches wide, 15 inches deep and 57 inches high (all max)
For metric please multiply by 2.5
Full Description
A very good quality pair of solid rosewood pole screens with original needlework panels in Royal blue, reds, creams and biscuit colours.
Pole screens were placed in front of an open fire, to shield the faces of people sitting close to the fire from the intense heat. Men and women wore make up in the 17th and 18th centuries – often to hide the scars from small pox and other blemishes. The make up had a wax base and sometimes contained lead – heat from the fire not only melted the make up but could also heat the lead and be life threatening!
From medieval times, screens in houses were considered just as essential as chairs and tables – chairs were arranged around the fire in a semicircle and had high backs and wings to shield from drafts that came through badly fitting windows and doors. Screens were used to block drafts and pole screens to block direct heat to the face. As health improved, the fashion for make up waned and the use of pole screens declined.
This beautiful and rare true pair were made in around 1835 and are in excellent condition for age. Very sturdy, heavy and usable in solid rosewood.
Still fit for purpose and would look beautiful either side of a fireplace or within an inglenook.
