What may work nicely is a stainless sheet with a decorative pewter tile edging.

We have a 1916 house with period cabinets in natural wood, period lighting and soapstone counters. We did crackle glaze off-white subway tiles and ran them up to the ceiling behind the stove area. The tiles are simple but with just a little bit more verve than plain ones would have. They are Horus Art tiles that I ordered online.

Thanks for your ideas lucid and needinfo1, much appreciated! We'd thought about a stainless backsplash and thought it might be too contemporary--but the addition of a decorative tile could tie it in--nice! And needinfo1, I'd love to see a picture of your kitchen if you have one. I'll look at the Horus Art tiles, thanks.

It was the style of antique stoves to have that back board and cooling/storage shelf. It certainly would look great with your Bluestar.

We have an old house and used a stainless sheet behind our stove. I've been happy with the look and function.

http://www.bluestarcooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/BlueStar-FreeStanding-Range-Installation-Manual-Rev-7-29-14.pdf

Beth Clark--I love the way your kitchen works and the stainless looks great!