Oxford Furnace Fireback

This iron fireback, cast in a New Jersey foundry in 1746, is emblazoned with the Royal Arms of King George II (who reigned from 1727 to 1760). Symbols of the British Empire decorated household goods of all kinds in early America. The slogan “DIEU ET MON DROIT,” or “God and my right,” weaves across the ribbon underneath the lion and unicorn. Firebacks served both practical and decorative purposes in the homes of colonial Americans. The cast iron plate radiated heat into the room and prevented the bricks at the back of the fireplace from crumbling due to high temperatures.  

Object Details

• Fireback 
  Made by Oxford Furnace 
  Warren County, New Jersey 
  1746 
  Iron 
  Museum of the American Revolution 
  2015.14.0001