10/31/2026
When asked to create a custom fire screen for late author and artist Will James’ historic Billings, Montana residence built in 1920, Montana Ironworks took inspiration from the traditional western pearl snap shirt. Utilizing western wear design motifs like distinct outlines and shapes influenced by Native American embroidery and craftsmanship, this fire screen also features a metal carved stalk of wheat as a handle. The wheat complements the design of the mantel, and is an homage to the space’s original use as James’ barn in which wheat was stored in the loft.