Cinderalla story: part 1

This little item is a mid-1930's vintage air vent. Ugly, no? They are installed in my house, and originally I had plans to replace them with something cast iron. But...they are growning on me. They possess a simple utilitarian depression/pre-war era strength. I started picturing them painted in fire engine red enamel. Its going to take some work, steel wool and time. I'll keep ya posted.