A George III brass-mounted, engraved steel and cast iron register grate circa 1780, attributed to William Hopkins

the top and upright sections with engraved floral and neo-classical motifs with gilt-brass flower heads applied to each top corner, the serpentine grate with a pierced and engraved apron, with a label inscribed Ground Back, losses

Fair/distressed condition with surface corrosion, verdigris and rust throughout. The frieze has traces of white painted graffiti. The brass is very tarnished and the insized decoration is worn. Loses include the fireback and registry bars.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

It is likely that this grate was installed in the Private Dining Room at Chatsworth by the 5th Duke only to be displaced by Wyat-Ville's fireplace some fourty years later. In the archive at Chatsworth ia a transcript of invoices for payments of furniture from the period 1774-1784 copied by George Spencer Ridgway in 1837. An invoice dated 1783 from William Hopkins of Greek Street, Soho totals £84 for fireplace furniture. There is a grate described 'For dining room. 1 fine burnished metal whole front patent Register stove with engraved honey suckle border £30'.