A late Regency gilt-brass-mounted, steel and cast iron register grate circa 1810-1820, in the manner of William Kent

the outer border with egg and dart pattern and acanthus clasps to each corner, the canted interior with raised stylised foliate borders with a five bar integeral grate front and a separate cast iron fireback, and sides with conforming egg and dart mounts to each side (2)

Fair condition. Surface rust, verdigris and staining thoughout. The cast iron fireback has more extensive rust with signs of fragmentation in places.
"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."

This fine grate was created for the open hearth of the Saloon chimneypiece and was commissioned by the 6th Duke as part of his renovation to Devonshire House during the second decade of the 19th century. Up to that time logs were burnt in fireplaces, but with the availability of good coal, the Duke decided to add high quality Register Grates to Kent's chimneypieces rather than replace them altogether as his father and mother had done some twenty years earlier.