*British, Fire Mark for Guardian Fire and Life Assurance Company, 1821-1902, Copper*
Approximate measurements: 23.7cm tall x 21.5cm wide.
A 19th century stamped copper insurance fire mark in good condition, darkly patinated. The Guardian Fire and Life Assurance company ran from 1821 to 1968. The company changed its name to Guardian Assurance Co Ltd in 1902. The embossed subject to the front is of Athene standing amongst clouds holding a spear in her right hand and an olive branch in her left.
Following the devastation caused by the Great Fire of London in 1666, there arose a pressing need for a more systematic approach to fire prevention and management, spurring the inception of the world’s inaugural property insurance policies. Recognizing the economic advantage of fire prevention over post-disaster reconstruction, insurance firms promptly established dedicated in-house fire brigades. These brigades were tasked with safeguarding the properties covered by insurance policies, often focusing exclusively on those properties. In order to denote insured buildings, insurance companies devised their own distinctive fire insurance plaques, which were fixed to the facades of buildings.
*Condition*
Excellent used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMBOXDO_4294156293
