FIREDOG, one of a pair of supports for wood that is burned in an open fireplace (see ANDIRON). It has an upright standard to which is attached a horizontal bar which raises the logs above the hearth level. The spreading base gives the support an appearance similar to that of a dog, hence fire-dog. Various materials are used, such as cast-iron, wrought-iron, steel, brass and cast-brass. Wrought-iron fire-dogs, with little or no ornament, were used in the simple homes, whereas the more expensive materials, with every conceivable adornment, belonged to the elite. The I7th century was noted for its rich and elaborate andirons, some of which stood 4 ft. high and were tipped with such decorations as bronze discs, shield.; of arms and statuettes.