Fire screen

A fire screen or fireguard began as a form of furniture that acted as a shield between the occupants of a room and the fireplace, and its primary function was to reduce the discomfort of excessive heat from a log fire.

Firescreens in the modern home have become decorative shields of sheet metal, glass, or wire mesh that can be placed in front of a fireplace opening to protect the room from open flames and flying embers that may be emitted by the fire.

Fire screens were used to cover the fireplace when nothing was burning inside it, and make it look more decorative.

Placed in front of the unused fireplace, the decorated screen improves the appearance of a room.

[1] Screens are decorated with embroidery, papier maché, painted wood or perhaps stained glass; the frame and feet might be carved.