original 19th century antique american victorian era interior residential fireplace gas insert or grate designed and fabricated by the dawson brothers, chicago, il. the ornamental cast iron surround and detachable grates contain a uniform black enameled finish. the highly stylized insert contains a protruding hood featuring an abundance of intricately designed floral motifs. the flanking fluted pilasters are adorned with acanthus leaf capitals supporting a frieze with anthemions, swag and floriated scroll work. the grate is fitted with multiple rows of steel burners. the gas valve and mixer are concealed by the basket grate. the small "summer piece" contains manufacturer markings lightly embossed along the bottom edge. the open/close valve and damper lever are original and intact. salvaged from a chicago graystone residence undergoing demolition. dawson brothers was established in 1875 by henry and william dawson. the two brothers began business in small quarters, but quickly expanded over the years. by the late 19th century the dawson co. employed nearly 500 workers within a plant covering several acres of floor space. departments included the iron foundry, brass foundry, stamping rooms, cabinet shop, machine room, finishing and polishing rooms, etc. the firm had branch offices and warehouses in new york city and san francisco. measures 30 1/2 x 25 x 4 1/2 inches.