Louis XIV fireback with Royal coat of arms - firebacks

Description

This arch topped cast iron fireback is an example of late 17th century, Louis XIV design.
The King’s coat of arms is placed at the center in a heart shaped cartouche framed by a shield with olive branches. Two palm branches, tied with a bow, flank this central composition and and curve up to surround it like a jewel. Above, are placed the coronation crown and the King’s motto on a banner: SEUL CONTRE TOUS, (Alone against all).
Louis XIV adapted this motto during the European Coalition against him in the years 1670 to 1700, especially with the war against Holland and the War of the Great Alliance. The presence of palm leaves symbol of victory gives weight to this interpretation.

Additional information

Examples of this fireback are dated 1670 and 1680, as seen in Henri Carpentier’s book, “Les Plaques de Cheminées”.