remarkable original 19th century ornamental cast iron three-piece medieval-themed detroit mansion fireplace fireback

late 19th century original three-piece ornamental cast iron figural or scenic fireplace fireback designed and fabricated by the peerless mfg. company, louisville, ky. the three heavy iron panels with old gold enameled finish comprise a detailed medieval-themed scene cast in high relief. the two opposed side panels are "hinged" to pivot inward or outward to accommodate firebox openings. the design patent was issued to peerless in 1891. the fireback is seldom found. salvaged from a detroit mansion demolished long ago. Center panel is 24 1/2 inches wide and each side panel is 15 inches wide, 30 inches tall and 1/2 inch thick.