Curved French Brass Fireplace Screen

Curved French Brass Fireplace Screen

This curved French brass fireplace screen is a striking example of late 1960s and 1970s French decorative design. It combines polished brass with finely woven black expanded steel mesh, creating a refined contrast between warm metallic tones and a dark, architectural surface. At the same time, its gently swept profile gives the screen a distinctly sculptural presence.

Sculptural Curved Design

Unlike conventional folding fireplace screens, this French example is composed of three connected panels arranged in a continuous arc. The screen spans approximately 94 cm and curves naturally toward the hearth. As a result, it presents a softer silhouette while still providing effective protection in front of the fire.

The three panels are covered in finely woven expanded black steel mesh. This construction allows firelight to filter subtly through the openings, creating a delicate interplay of light and shadow. Moreover, the dark mesh provides a strong visual contrast with the polished brass frame.

Polished Brass and Black Steel

The combination of polished brass and black steel was a distinctive pairing in French decorative metalwork of the period. Here, the brass framing is deliberately restrained. Clean, rectilinear strips define the upper and lower rails as well as the vertical divisions between the panels.

In contrast, the textured mesh introduces visual depth without adding ornament. Together, these materials create a sophisticated modernist composition that feels both functional and decorative.

Mid-Century French Fireplace Design

Produced during the late 1960s or 1970s, the screen reflects the period’s interest in combining practical household objects with sculptural form. Rather than relying on elaborate decoration, its character comes from proportion, material contrast, and geometry.

The curved construction also provides inherent rigidity. Consequently, the screen stands independently on its lower brass rail without additional feet or visible supports. Its 50.5 cm height and 94 cm width make it particularly well suited to a mid-sized fireplace.

Very Good Condition

The fireplace screen remains in very good overall condition. The polished brass retains its warm original lustre, while the black steel mesh is intact and free from visible deformation. Furthermore, the clean condition preserves the elegant contrast between the two materials.

Although designed as a practical hearth accessory, this curved French brass fireplace screen can also be appreciated as a sculptural decorative object. Its restrained geometry and luxurious material combination allow it to complement both period and contemporary interiors.

Details

• Type: Curved fireplace screen
• Origin: France
• Period: Late 1960s–1970s
• Style: French Modernist
• Materials: Polished brass and expanded black steel mesh
• Construction: Three-panel curved design
• Shape: Continuous sweeping arc
• Frame: Rectilinear polished brass strips
• Design: Freestanding, curved construction
• Condition: Very good overall condition
• Brass: Original warm lustre
• Mesh: Intact and without deformation
• Use: Fireplace screen and decorative object

Dimensions

• Height: 50.5 cm (19.9 in)
• Width: 94 cm (37.0 in)
• Length / Depth: 15.5 cm (6.1 in)