seldom found 19th century original and intact three-sided salvaged chicago fireback with figural circular medallion

seldom found late 19th century rare salvaged chicago antique american ornamental cast iron fireback panel designed and fabricated by the chattanooga implement & mfg. co., chattanooga, tenn. the remarkable metallic gold enameled triple-sided fireplace fireback panel contains a surrounding frame with a deeply dimpled texture or field pattern. the deeply embossed detachable circular medallion contains a finely detailed mythological muse or nymph with winged cherub grasping a flaming torch. firebacks are positioned against the back wall of a fireplace, to both protect the masonry of the back wall and radiate heat of the fire forward into the room. by reflecting light and heat from the fire out into the room, a fireback is a noticeable improvement to the hearth. the radiating heat is gained whether a fireback is used with wood fires or gas logs. the center panel measures 25 by 30 inches. the center medallion measures approx. 21 1/2 inches in diameter.