$175.00
Exquisite pair of authentic 19th century face fire screens–see history below. The screens are in their original, as-found condition. The fabric is a taupe-gold silk, embroidered with silk and metallic thread in browns and greens in an abstract floral design, and embellished with pearls and tiny gold beads.  The perimeter is framed by cording in two different thicknesses and the outside edge is trimmed in flat woven passementerie. The slender wooden handles are finished in gold and cream. Very lightweight. Spectacular antique collectible for framing or display. See below for dimensions and condition issues.  Shipping included for street addresses within contiguous United States.
1 in stock
APPROX. DIMENSIONS: 16.5″ long to tip of handle x 9.75″ across
CONDITION: The face screens are in their as-found condition with no alterations. The fabric is shattered and torn in several places and show soil from previous use. The handles are loose, and the fabric is torn where they attach to the fabric. The inner, thinner cording is separated at the top of one and the bottom of the other. The backing of one of the screens is torn and separated on the left side and the interlining paper is visible. The handles have loss of paint. See photos. These are meant to be framed or displayed as antique artifacts, and the condition attests to their authenticity.
HISTORY (from online sources): Face fire screens were designed to be used by fashionable ladies of the early 1800s (and perhaps earlier) to provide protection from flushing of the face and/or deterioration of elaborately applied facial makeup made from unstable (and usually toxic) ingredients when seated close to an open fire–this custom possibly being more prevalent in England and the Continent than in the Americas. During the Victorian era that followed, “face painting” was considered vulgar and typically worn by actresses and women of loose morals. Â
Shipping included for street addresses within contiguous United States.
A WORD ABOUT VINTAGE: Our inventory consists of vintage or antique items which are more than 20 years old, usually used or pre-owned, unless marked “new old stock.” As such, there may be signs of wear and age, which we will disclose to the best of our ability. Nevertheless, we encourage you to carefully read the description and view the photos, especially when purchasing a gift. All items ship with tracking and insurance, and although we do not accept returns, we will offer a refund in case of breakage or damage during transit, upon receipt of sufficient proof.Â
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Customer has up to 30 days unless vendor opts out of return policy per item to return a product for any reason such as damaged item, size, or unhappiness with product upon arrival. Read our full return policy.
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!
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Your Review
danicatheracecardriver –
Wonderful experience, meticulous packaging!
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!