Metal Plate

I don't know what this rusty metal plate is for but it looks a bit conspicuous on the new brick wall.  I'm wondering if the plate is something to do with the construction of the new wall as it is on a joint between two sections.  The plate looks like it may have been painted at one point but most of it is long gone now.  I like how the ivy softly drapes over the plate and wall contrasting with the hard lines and man made colours and textures.