original c. 1890's american victorian era interior residential fireplace gas insert designed and patented by henry and william dawson of chicago. the fireplace grate or insert features a surround consisting of ornamental cast iron. the projecting hood contains elegant scrollwork alternating with deeply grooved shells. the flanking pilasters with unique acanthus leaf capitals are adorned with richly ornate foliage. the lower perforated ash grille contains abundant leafage and scrollwork. the original oxidized copper-plated finish remains partially intact. fabricated by the dawson brothers, chicago, il. the gas insert was salvaged from a chicago graystone undergoing demolition. measures 24 1/2 x 30 1/2 x 4 inches.