Limestone Mantel with Carved Foliate Tablet

A pale cream limestone fireplace mantel of quiet, confident proportion. A broad molded shelf breaks forward over each jamb above a deep plain frieze, and the only ornament is a single carved tablet at the centre, a lozenge set within scrolling foliage and open flowers. The jambs are flat pilaster blocks with a stepped foot, framing a stone lined opening. The stone has a fine even grain and a warm ivory tone. Photographed in a lamplit sitting room, it shows how restrained carving suits upholstered rooms, drawing rooms, libraries and estate home interiors.