Rare French Revolutionary Period Fireback

Stock No.16690

A rare French fireback. Finely cast, this fireback almost certainly dates to the Revolutionary period, with laurel sprigs bordering the central design. These leaves were associated with Napoleon, who wore a gold crown modelled as a laurel wreath for his coronation in 1804, but used the leaves for many decorative schemes before this date, due to their long association with victory.
The central scene depicts an allegorical figure, possibly the French symbol of liberty, equality and liberty, 'Marianne'. Her helmet bears a striking resemblance to the Phrygian cap associated with the Revolution, and it appears to be studded with the French Revolutionary cockade, a rosette with the colours of the tricolor.

A fireback such as this would have been an explicit show of support for the Revolutionary movement, and therefore a bold political statement in the centre of the home.

French, c.1800. View our collection of: antique Firebacks