Images(2)

Fire Screen

DateCa. 1755

OriginEngland, London

MediumMahogany, oak and silk (replaced)

DimensionsOH: 56"; OW; 27 3/4"; OD: 19"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-10,1

DescriptionPair of Rococo carved mahogany fire screens. The two reeded columnar stiles with blocked tops carved with four leaf-petaled flowers and pineapple finials are carved on the square lower section with descendeding bellflowers and develop outsplayed legs with two scroll feet each also carved with bellflowers, connected by two delicatedly turned leaf carved and reeded horizontal turned stretchers. Crest carved with central rocaille central shell and scrolling leaves. Pierced rococo foliate carving under panel connects to inner face of square stiles. Non-original painted panels were replaced with reproduction silk moire.
Label TextThe exceptional ability of mahogany to hold fine and delicate carving is fully realized in these outstanding screens. While the maker of these screens is not documented, they carry a tradition of having been made by Thomas Chippendale for the Earl of Poulett.

This particular form was known as a horse screen in the eighteenth century, a term which refers to the central stretcher with four feet.
ProvenanceCollection of the Rt. Hon. Earl Poulett; Mr. R. W. Partridge, London; Richard A. Canfield; Marsden J. Perry; Lenygon & Morant, New York.

Letter from Mr. R. W. Partridge of London to Mr. Canfield, as quoted in the 1936 American Art Association catalogue "They formerly belonged ot the late Earl Poulett and were made for the family by Chippendale himself."