Fireplace screens
Antique fireplace screens, fire guards and fenders – more than 100 in stock, most of them French and Victorian, from ornate Napoleon III screens to Art Deco designs. Filter by width, height, price, age and style. Not sure what you need? Read our guide: 10 tips for choosing a screen for a fireplace.
Quality assurance for our fireplace screens
All our fireplace screens are handcrafted, ensuring the absence of inferior quality products on our site. We categorize the condition of our vintage and antique items with *, **, or *** to denote quality. Though we aim for accuracy in these ratings, vintage items may not always be perfect. A *** rating indicates near-perfect condition, ** suggests some damage but functional for open fireplaces, with all major damage pictured. A * rating is for screens considered only suitable for decorative purposes due to significant damage.
Three types of fireplace screen
Mesh fire screens have a fine wire mesh in a decorative frame and stop sparks from an open wood fire. Most of ours are French, from ornate Napoleon III screens to sober Art Deco designs.
Fire guards are English guards with a coarser mesh, made to keep small children and pets at a safe distance from the fire. For a gas fire that gives no sparks, a guard is often all you need.
Fire fenders are low rails of brass, iron or polished steel along the front of the hearth that keep logs and ash in place. We stock French, Louis XV, Victorian, Georgian and Art Nouveau fenders.
Finding the right size
Most fireplace screens are about 50 cm (19.6") high, which suits a moderate fire; for a larger fire, choose a taller screen. The screen should cover the full width of the fire or the fireplace opening. Multi-panel screens, such as our extendable French Model screen, can grow to six panels and fold away easily when the fireplace is not in use. You can filter our collection by width and height. For more advice on mesh, heat, weight and storage, read our guide 10 tips for choosing a screen for a fireplace.
Proper style of fireplace screen
Fireplace screens, not commonly found before the 18th century, should match the style of both the fireplace and the house. From Louis XIV in France to Georgian in the UK, the choice ultimately depends on personal taste, with simple designs potentially complementing ornate fireplaces well.
Decoration of an unused fireplace
Any decorative screen, guard, or fender can enhance an unused fireplace, with safety and size less of a concern. English fire guards or fine mesh screens can add ambiance while blocking drafts more effectively.
Get advice
Our website allows for selection by material, condition, size, and style. If unsure, contact us with dimensions or a photo for personalized recommendations on the best fireplace screens for your space. Read also: The best decorative fireplace screen in our view.