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Now that we have electric lights and heating, lighting a fire in the fireplace feels like something special. Spend a few minutes in front of one, though, and you'll remember why technology has moved on. Between the intense heat and light of the flames and the danger of stray sparks, having an open flame indoors isn't the best idea. That's where fire screens came in.
By the late 18th century, they were made of various materials like wood, leather, wicker and papier-mache. Metal was not a popular material; it would get too hot. With everyone gathered around the fire, the fire screen would have had a prominent place in the room, so they were made to be decorative as well as practical. Fabric covers with woven or embroidered designs were popular. So were paintings.
In the late 1800s, stained glass screens, like this one that sold for $800 at Morphy Auctions, became fashionable.
Q: We have a 1960s Hercules kid's bike. It's in rough condition. Is it better to keep it in its original condition? If so, what replacements can we do that won't decrease the value? Is it valuable?
A: The Hercules Cycle and Motor Company was founded in England in 1910. By the late 1930s, they were one of the world's biggest bicycle manufacturers. The company was bought by Tube Investments, now TI, in the 1940s. Today, vintage Hercules bicycles can sell for about $50 to $400, depending on their age and condition. Bicycles are one area of collecting where repairs and restorations can raise the value. Collectors often like to ride them or at least keep them in working condition. A restored vintage bicycle is usually worth more than one left in poor original condition. If there is a bicycle shop or restorer in your area, or a bicycling club, they may help you get more information.
Q: I have a black-and-white print or maybe it's something else. It's religious and looks old. Underneath it reads "La Madone du Magnificat, Galerie Des Offices Florence." The names "Sandro Botticelli" and "Louis Journot" are in small print at the edges of the picture. Where can I go to have this evaluated?
A: Your print is a copy of "Madonna of the Magnificat," originally painted by Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli in 1481. "Galerie des Offices" is French for the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, where the painting is displayed.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel answer readers' questions sent to the column. Send a letter with one question describing the size, material (glass, pottery) and what you know about the item. Include only two pictures, the object and a closeup of any marks or damage. Be sure your name and return address are included. By sending a question, you give full permission for use in any Kovel product. Names, addresses or email addresses will not be published. We do not guarantee the return of photographs, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. Questions that are answered will appear in Kovels Publications. Write to Kovels, (Name of this newspaper), King Features Syndicate, 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 or email us at collectorsgallery@kovels.com.