Bertil Vallien fire screen

This fire guard or screen was designed by Bertil Vallien and produced by Boda in Sweden during the 1970s. Crafted from black lacquered metal, the piece blends practical function with an artistic, sculptural quality characteristic of Vallien’s experimental approach during this period.

The screen is composed of three hinged panels fitted with fine metal mesh, providing protection from heat while allowing transparency. Along the top edge, a rhythmic row of circular metal discs of varying sizes is welded onto narrow stems of different heights. This arrangement creates a dynamic visual effect, introducing a sense of movement and shadow play when positioned before a fireplace. The matte black finish exhibits subtle textural variations resulting from hand fabrication, contributing to the piece’s raw and tactile character.

The condition is good, with typical signs of use including minor surface wear and oxidation, consistent with the piece’s age and functional history. The hinges remain intact, enabling adjustable positioning to fit various fireplace dimensions or coverage preferences.

Bertil Vallien is primarily celebrated for his innovative glasswork, but his metal sculptures and objects reveal a similar commitment to craftsmanship and symbolic design. This fire screen is a rare example of his metalwork and exemplifies the collaboration with Boda, part of the renowned Kosta Boda group, known for their support of interdisciplinary design in Sweden’s 20th-century design landscape.

The screen measures 88 cm in width, 10 cm in depth, and 39.5 cm in height (approximately 34.6 x 3.9 x 15.6 inches).