This thing looks vaguely familiar, but I can’t quite put my finger on it. I agree with Hatfield: the wiring is too convoluted to make sense. I have a feeling that it could be the skeleton of an air filter, with the actual filtering fabric removed.
What are the dimensions? Based on the first picture, I estimate 10.5″ x 15.5″, is that correct? Are there any traces of soot on the surface? Any markings or labels?