This rare, antique Bromford Iron Works fireplace footman or stool has a rectangular top, with cutout handle opening, above a serpentine, reticulated apron. It is raised on polished steel cabriole legs and snake feet at the front; with straight, wrought iron legs and scrolled feet at the rear. Also known as a fireplace trivet, a variation of this piece could be found on every British fireplace hearth. These serve as trivets for the proverbial tea kettle and sometimes as low seats next to the fire.