Pair of Neo-Classical Revival Benches Italy 19th Century

19th Century / 1801 - 1900

Two George IV screen poles, supported by 3 curved legs, on which stands a refined baluster engaged with the pole that ends in a vase-shaped element. Two shield-shaped panels are fixed by rings and screws, so that their height can be adjusted. Made of citronnier, painted with phytomorphic motifs, the screens have embroidered fabric inserts. While in the 19th century pole screens had an ornamental function, in the 18th century they were used to shield the face from the direct heat of the fire, which could generate dangerous toxic reactions with white lead cosmetics (basic lead carbonate), widely used at the time by both men and women. The adjustable height allowed them to be customised according to the needs of the user, positioning them as a screen between their face and the fireplace.