IN THE MUSEUMS
Fire screen – Louis XV era
This gilded, chiselled wooden fire screen was painted in different colours.
It features palm leaves, acanthus leaves, and flowers. A medallion representing an Asian character with a hat on sits on top of the fire screen.
Donated by Grog Carven,
Musée du Louvre, Paris.
This fire screen is an exceptional object. It was probably commissioned by a Parisian nobleman in the 18th century. It features a medallion with a small Asian character and numerous flower details: these elements are typical of that era. The screen’s painted gilding makes it one of the finest artworks of its time. It was probably made during the first half of the 18th century, at a time when works of art were in high demand and craftsmen were encouraged to be creative. It features countless details: acanthus flowers, leaves, creepers and small flowers. Its superb design makes it a true work of art rather than a mere functional object.
