Name/Title
Face ShieldEntry/Object ID
969.12.1a,bDescription
This pair of guilded brass fire/face shields have needlepoint banners attached. The shields consist of a brass "T" shaped support from which hangs a needlepoint and beadwork shiled-shaped banner.
Theses shields were used by ladies of the 19th century to protect their faces from the heat of open fireplaces.
The bases are elaborately scrolled and the "T" shaped supports terminate in Fleur de Lis forms. The needlework consists of an olive green ground with a beaded design of roses surrounded by leaves and fretwork in shades of grey (Grisaille) and brown beads.
Two faded red and green tassels hang from the supports and the remnants of a fringe still survives. The needlework is in fairly good condition, but the backing silk is in tatters. The brass sections are in three pieces: the base, the screw-in flange and the support "T" which fits into the flange. The banners can be taken off their bases and held by hand, hence the name.
Circa 1855
Note: These have since been repaired with acid free card inside for support and new red silk backing has been added.
Note: In 1986 one of the pair was taken to be repaired by the Ministry of Citizenship and Culture-Toronto Museum Section- Steve Poulin.Dimensions
Height
14 inWidth
10-1/2 inMaterial
Brass, Needlepoint