The Lion & Unicorn Traditional Cast Iron Fireback is an exceptionally substantial decorative fireplace back designed for large traditional chambers and inglenook-style installations. Featuring the heraldic lion and unicorn, it creates a commanding period focal point behind a suitable open fire, fire basket or compatible gas-effect appliance.
The lion and unicorn are closely associated with British heraldry, giving this fireback a formal and historically influenced appearance. Its large-scale cast design is especially well suited to country houses, heritage restorations and traditional interiors where the fireplace is intended to become a major architectural feature.
Cast iron firebacks have been used in traditional fireplaces for generations, combining decorative impact with practical protection. Positioned against the rear wall of the chamber, they help shield the surrounding brickwork from direct heat and scorching. Their considerable mass also absorbs heat from the fire and gradually radiates it back into the room.
This model measures approximately 39 inches wide x 31 inches high, making it suitable for large fireplace openings and substantial fire basket arrangements. Its generous proportions allow the lion and unicorn motif to remain clearly visible around and above the fire.
The traditional black finish highlights the raised heraldic detailing while coordinating naturally with cast iron baskets, fire dogs, stone surrounds and dark hearth materials. Its exceptional weight and scale give it a strong visual presence that would be difficult to achieve with a smaller fireback.
Installation requires careful planning. With an approximate weight of 167kg, this fireback cannot be handled as a standard two-person lift. The access route, lifting equipment, hearth protection and final support arrangement should all be considered before delivery.
Some traditional firebacks are still hand moulded and cast using long-established manufacturing methods. Slight variations in surface texture, finish, dimensions and weight may therefore occur and should be regarded as part of the individual character of the cast iron product.
Key Features
- Large traditional cast iron fireback
- Decorative lion and unicorn motif
- Formal British heraldic styling
- Suitable for large fireplace chambers
- Ideal for inglenook fireplaces
- 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 39 inches wide
- Approximately 31 inches high
- Approximate weight of 167kg
- Suitable for substantial fire baskets
- Strong heritage fireplace character
Expert Insight
This is a specialist large-format fireback rather than a standard domestic model. Its scale requires a generously proportioned chamber and basket, while its substantial weight means professional delivery planning and mechanical handling may be necessary.
Suitability
The Lion & Unicorn 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 large period fireplace chambers, country houses, heritage restorations and inglenook settings.
Installation / Technical Notes
Approximate supplied dimensions:
- Width: 39 inches
- Height: 31 inches / approximately 79cm
- Weight: 167kg
The supplied metric width of 73.5cm does not correspond with the stated imperial width:
- 39 inches is approximately 99cm
- 73.5cm is approximately 29 inches
The correct width must therefore be confirmed against the latest manufacturer specification before ordering or preparing the fireplace chamber.
The exact thickness has not been supplied and may vary slightly due to the cast manufacturing process.
The fireback must be securely positioned and adequately supported within the chamber. Final compatibility with the selected basket, fire dogs, hearth, chamber construction and intended fuel type must be confirmed before installation.
Due to the approximate 167kg weight, professional handling is essential. A planned team lift and suitable mechanical lifting equipment are likely to be required, depending on site access.