These are accessory hubcaps made for the 1926-1927 Model T wire wheels.They were/are being made by a guy here in Michigan and were/are being sold by the vendors such as Langs. I believe they are cast bronze or brass. They look great on speedsters.
Steve, just looking at them, I can not tell what is forward or backward.
I like accessories that look different and I am sure I would put them on one of my cars if they were mine. (Maybe a little clean up first)