Antique Fireplace Mantels

Before the dawn of electricity and television, the fireplace was the social center of the room. As such, antique fireplace mantels were designed to capture the eye of the observer, and many antique fireplaces boasted elaborate carving or sculptures.

Functionally, an antique fireplace mantel is similar to its modern counterpart. It is a projecting hood, often with a shelf above the fireplace, and extends to the framework around the fireplace. Many antique fireplace mantels were designed to go straight up to the ceiling.

The central nature of antique fireplace mantels led the wealthy to decorate them. Some antique fireplace mantels simply serve as elaborate backdrops for portraits, while other antique fireplace mantels contain lavish carvings and designs. Sculpture is also commonly found carved into the mantel, such as animals, fruits, or gothic figures. In one notable case, the royal family of Spain was carved into the antique fireplace mantel of the Palais de Justice at Bruges.

Antique fireplace mantels can be made of many different materials. In addition to the usual fine woods such as oak, walnut or cherry, stone may also be used. Marble, granite and limestone have all been used, depending on the architecture and design of the room.