Firebacks

Firebacks originated in France in the fifteenth century with their main purpose being to protect the clay fire chamber from the effects of heat, there was also the added benefit of retaining and radiating heat back into the room. They can increase heat efficiency by up to 50%! Firebacks would originally have been cast in a local blacksmiths foundry for the nobility or local noteworthy families, therefore they tended to be highly decorated for that specific family in designs that illustrated their heritage. The Royalty would also commission firebacks with designs incorporating coats of arms and politics also played a big part with social events being portrayed. You will also see them designed for reputable tradesmen highlighting their skills. As well as their intended purpose we have also noticed a recent fashion for using them as kitchen splashbacks!