Firebacks

Description: Rectangular shape; cyma recta moulded edging (top and sides); top centre, rose and crown; top right, date; top left, initials, DI (with D reversed); small rose stamp between initials and rose/crown; concentric, rope-patterned roundel below date and below initials, with fleur-de-lys separating each from the rose/crown; below, uneven alternating line of three fleurs and two small rose stamps.

Notes: One of a series of firebacks cast between the 1670s and 1690s bearing small, simple stamps, initials and dates; the style of rose and crown is similar to that used in gun founding in the Tudor period, suggesting that the furnace that was the source of this fireback may have been used for that purpose. Alleged to have been formally at Rowfant House, Worth, Sussex.

Inscription: D [reversed] I 1685

Description: Arched rectangular shape; no edging; date in arch; initials in wide triad below.

Notes: A rather crudely cast fireback; rivets indicate repair. Wotton Auctions, Wotton-under-Edge, 30 Apr-1 May 2019, lot 1138.

Inscription: 16 59 / W R [or P] F [triad]

Description: Rectangular with canted top corners; twisted rope edging (top and sides); top centre, date formed from a single stamp, over-pressed; monogram below date.

Notes: Dates formed from a single stamp are uncommon, this series being distinguished by this practice.

Inscription: 1632 / HPE