Antique cast chimney back: Love and Prudence

This small cast iron chimney back for fireplace dates back to the 20th century. It depicts the Allegory of Prudence represented here by Cupid (Love) who receives a cautionary advice (Cupid with a snake).

"Le miroir pour désigner que l'homme prudent ne peut régler sa conduite que par la connaissance de ses défauts ; le serpent, parce que ce reptile a toujours été regardé comme le plus prudent des animaux" - Honoré La Combe de Prézel, Dictionnaire iconologique, Paris, 1756.  ("The mirror to designate that the prudent man can regulate his conduct only by the knowledge of his faults, the serpent, because this reptile has always been considered the most vigilant of animals" - Honoré La Combe de Prézel, Paris, 1756.)

Origin: France
In good condition.

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