Rare 19th Century Thomas Elsley Canopy On Legs Hob Grate

Rare 19th Century canopy-on-legs hob grate by Thomas Elsley. Fine egg and dart frame surrounds a delicately cast forest style hob grate. The unusual ash catcher is operated by the brass knob. When closed the steel plates hold the ash just below the grate, whilst a turn of the knob makes the plates tilt allowing the ash to fall onto the hearth or a strategically placed container for easy cleaning. Behind the hobs and clay back would either be simple rendered brick work or decorative brick work such as herringbone. London, England. Circa 1893.