The Rose & Portcullis Traditional Cast Iron Fireback is a decorative fireplace back designed to add period character while helping protect the rear of the fireplace chamber. Featuring a traditional rose and portcullis motif, it creates an attractive focal point behind a suitable open fire, gas fire or decorative grate.
Cast iron firebacks have been used for generations in traditional fireplace installations. As well as enhancing the appearance of the chamber, they help shield the rear brickwork from direct heat and scorching. Their substantial cast iron construction also absorbs heat from the fire and gradually radiates it back into the room.
This model measures approximately 15.5 inches wide x 21 inches high, making it suitable for smaller traditional fireplace openings and compact fire baskets. Its narrower proportions allow the decorative pattern to remain prominent without overwhelming the surrounding chamber.
The fireback is finished in black, giving it a classic appearance that pairs naturally with cast iron fire baskets, traditional inserts and period fireplace surrounds. The Rose & Portcullis design is particularly well suited to Georgian, Victorian, Tudor-inspired and heritage-style interiors.
Installation is straightforward, with the fireback normally positioned by leaning it securely against the rear wall of the fireplace. The final arrangement must remain stable and suit the dimensions, fire type and construction of the chamber.
Some traditional firebacks continue to be hand moulded and cast using long-established manufacturing methods. As a result, small surface or dimensional variations may occur and should be regarded as part of the character of the cast product.
Key Features
- Traditional cast iron fireback
- Rose and portcullis design
- Decorative period styling
- Protects rear fireplace brickwork
- Helps reduce heat scorching
- Absorbs and radiates heat
- Suitable for traditional fires
- Can be used with gas-effect fires
- Black painted finish
- Compact 15.5-inch width
- Approximate weight of 21kg
- Simple lean-against installation
- Suitable for period fireplace projects
Expert Insight
A cast iron fireback is both decorative and practical. Its mass helps absorb heat from the fire before radiating it back into the room, while also reducing direct heat exposure to the masonry at the rear of the fireplace.
Suitability
The Rose & Portcullis Traditional Cast Iron Fireback is suitable for compatible open fires, log or coal fires, and certain gas log or coal-effect fires. It is particularly well suited to smaller traditional fireplace chambers and period-style interiors.
Installation / Technical Notes
Approximate dimensions:
- Width: 15.5 inches / 39.5cm
- Height: 21 inches / 53.3cm
- Weight: 21kg
- Reference: K39 FB Rose & Portcullis
The thickness of traditional firebacks varies by size and may range from approximately ½ inch to 2 inches. The exact thickness of this model has not been supplied.
The fireback is normally installed by leaning it securely against the rear of the fireplace. The installer should ensure it is stable, adequately supported and compatible with the chosen fire or basket.
Due to the product’s weight, suitable manual handling precautions should be used. Larger firebacks may require two or three people to lift or reposition safely.