A brass fire basket is a free-standing grate for burning coal, wood or smokeless fuel, made with cast iron bars and a fire bed and decorated with a brass front, finials, uprights or apron. It sits within an open fireplace and raises the fire off the hearth so that air can circulate and the fuel burns efficiently.
Fire baskets developed in the eighteenth century as coal replaced wood in many British homes, and they became a central feature of Georgian and Regency rooms. Fine examples have serpentine brass fronts with pierced fretwork, engraved panels, urn finials and classical motifs, while later Victorian and Edwardian designs drew on Adam and Arts and Crafts styles. Dutch and Continental baskets often have bold brass uprights and decoration. When buying, check that the basket suits the size and proportions of the fireplace, that the iron firebars are sound and that brass parts are original and not later additions. Burnt-out bars can usually be replaced by a specialist. A polished brass fire basket brings warmth and sparkle to a period fireplace and is still entirely practical for regular use.
