Very charming and decorative hand-painted iron panel depicting a large hydrangea shrub in a pretty blue and white pot. Fold-out iron prop fixed to the back.
Typically would have been used as a firescreen during the summer months, when fireplace not in use. Circa 1920, French.
Large Antique French Toleware Hydrangea Firescreen
A striking and large antique toleware firescreen, beautifully modelled as a flowering hydrangea plant. Crafted in shaped metal and delicately hand-painted, the piece features abundant soft pink blooms and finely detailed green foliage, creating a richly layered and highly decorative effect.
Both sculptural and functional in origin, this piece would have been used as a firescreen, positioned in front of a hearth. It also makes a wonderful stand-alone decorative feature.
The scale is particularly impressive, and far larger than most surviving toleware firescreens, giving it real presence. The reverse retains its original support, showing honest age and construction consistent with early 20th century continental work.
A rare example combining folk art charm with traditional toleware craftsmanship.