The Fairfax Traditional Cast Iron Fireback is a large decorative fireplace back designed to bring substantial period character to the rear of a traditional fireplace chamber. Its broad proportions and detailed cast design create a strong architectural focal point behind a suitable open fire, fire basket or compatible gas-effect appliance.
Cast iron firebacks have been used in traditional fireplaces for generations, offering both decorative and practical benefits. Positioned against the rear wall of the chamber, they help protect the surrounding brickwork from direct heat and scorching. Their substantial mass also absorbs heat from the fire before gradually radiating it back into the room.
This model measures approximately 33.75 inches wide x 26.75 inches high, making it suitable for larger fireplace openings and more substantial fire basket arrangements. Its generous size allows the decorative Fairfax design to remain visible around and above the fire, helping the chamber feel more complete and carefully proportioned.
The traditional black finish enhances the raised cast detailing while coordinating naturally with cast iron baskets, fire dogs, stone surrounds and dark hearth materials. Its scale and styling make it particularly well suited to Georgian, Victorian, country house and heritage-inspired interiors.
Installation is normally achieved by positioning the fireback securely against the rear of the fireplace chamber. Due to its approximate 83kg weight, careful access planning, suitable support and appropriate manual handling will be required.
Some traditional firebacks are still hand moulded and cast using long-established manufacturing methods. Slight variations in surface texture, finish, weight and dimensions may therefore occur and should be regarded as part of the character of the cast iron product.
Key Features
- Traditional cast iron fireback
- Decorative Fairfax design
- Large period-style proportions
- Suitable for larger fireplace chambers
- Protects rear fireplace brickwork
- Helps reduce heat scorching
- Absorbs and radiates heat
- Suitable for compatible open fires
- May suit certain gas-effect fires
- Traditional black finish
- Approximately 33.75 inches wide
- Approximately 26.75 inches high
- Approximate weight of 83kg
- Suitable for substantial fire baskets
- Ideal for heritage fireplace projects
Expert Insight
The Fairfax is best suited to a larger fireplace where its scale can be properly balanced with the basket, hearth and surround. Its substantial cast iron construction also provides greater heat-retaining mass than many smaller firebacks.
Suitability
The Fairfax Traditional Cast Iron Fireback is suitable for compatible open fires, log or coal fires, and certain gas log or coal-effect appliances. It is particularly well suited to larger period fireplace chambers, inglenooks and heritage-style interiors.
Installation / Technical Notes
Approximate dimensions:
- Width: 33.75 inches / approximately 86cm
- Height: 26.75 inches / approximately 68cm
- Weight: 83kg
The exact thickness has not been supplied and may vary slightly due to the cast manufacturing process.
The fireback should be securely positioned and adequately supported against the rear of the fireplace chamber. Final compatibility with the selected fire, basket, hearth and chamber construction must be confirmed before installation.
Due to the approximate 83kg weight, this product requires careful manual handling. A team lift involving at least two or three people, or suitable lifting equipment, is likely to be necessary depending on access.