{"product_id":"english-brass-fireplace-tool-set-w-golden-hind-nautical-motif-mid-20th-century-233-4","title":"English Brass Fireplace Tool Set w\/ Golden Hind Nautical Motif","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA compact English brass fireplace set, probably dating from the mid-20th century, distinguished by its elaborate nautical decoration. The circular stand rises to a tall central stem surmounted by a richly modeled sailing ship in relief, complete with billowing sails, rigging, and scrolling waves; the reverse is marked ENGLAND. The stand has four hanging positions (three at the front and one at the back) and retains three tools: a shovel, a brush with dark bristles, and a three-pronged fire fork. The tools may not all have belonged originally to the same set, as their handles differ in design, but their scale, material, and aged surfaces work together very naturally. Particularly appealing is the small galleon forming the handle of the fire fork, inscribed GOLDEN HIND, a reference to Sir Francis Drake’s celebrated Tudor ship.   The brass has developed a warm, uneven patina consistent with age and use, with the shaft of the fork noticeably darker than the others,  from repeated handling and exposure to the hearth. This natural oxidation gives the set much of its period character, although the brass could equally be polished for a brighter, more luminous finish if preferred. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eFire irons had been made as decorative sets for the hearth since at least the 18th century, reflecting the prevailing decorative styles and turning these practical tools into an integral part of the room’s furnishing. This later English example gives that tradition a playful nautical character, with the Golden Hind motif adding a particularly distinctive detail. Its compact scale suits a smaller fireplace or stove, while the slight variations between the tools reinforce its collected, lived-with quality. Particularly fitting for a coastal or seaside interior, or for someone with an interest in English exploration and maritime history. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition and patina consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 23¾\" high x 6\" wide x 5\" deep  \u003cbr\u003eApprox. overall 60cm high x 15cm wide x 13cm deep \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chez Pluie","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54403671392594,"sku":"25554","price":675.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1166\/6698\/files\/DSC05248_ae00715a-03cc-419b-bf89-cf1568779fc3.jpg?v=1787823371","url":"https:\/\/www.chezpluie.com\/products\/english-brass-fireplace-tool-set-w-golden-hind-nautical-motif-mid-20th-century-233-4","provider":"Chez Pluie","version":"1.0","type":"link"}