Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why do fireplaces have mantels?
1 Answer

Fireplaces have mantels to prevent smoke from entering the room. Initially, mantels functioned as hoods and were installed to protect an interior space and nearby objects from the extreme heat generated by a fireplace.
Today, fireplaces and mantels can be seen as a focal point in your decor. Fireplaces were once essential fixtures in a home. Even as HVAC systems would eventually see to it that fireplaces weren’t a necessity, no mechanically engineered thermal heating and ventilation technology can replicate the feeling of warmth and camaraderie that a flickering fire guarantees.
Find antique and vintage fireplaces and mantels on 1stDibs.
Today, fireplaces and mantels can be seen as a focal point in your decor. Fireplaces were once essential fixtures in a home. Even as HVAC systems would eventually see to it that fireplaces weren’t a necessity, no mechanically engineered thermal heating and ventilation technology can replicate the feeling of warmth and camaraderie that a flickering fire guarantees.
Find antique and vintage fireplaces and mantels on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMarch 29, 2024
Related Questions
- What is a fireplace mantel surround?1 Answer
- How high should a mantel shelf be above a fireplace?1 Answer
- What is a good color for a fireplace mantel?1 Answer
- What is a good depth for a fireplace mantel?1 Answer
- What is the average width of a fireplace mantel?1 Answer
Shop for Fireplaces and Mantels on 1stDibs
Classic French 19th Century Apartment Fireplace Surround - Italian Bleu Fleuri
Located in Beervelde, BE
This classic French apartment fireplace surround from the 19th century is crafted from the rare and highly sought-after Italian Bleu Fleuri marble, also known as Bardiglio Fiorito—a ...
Category
Antique 19th Century French Louis Philippe Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Marble
Atelier Marolles Wrought Iron Animal Fire Screen 1950s
Located in Benalmadena, ES
This wrought iron fire screen was produced by Atelier Marolles in France during the 1950s. The structure is composed entirely of hand-forged iron, featuring a rectangular frame suppo...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Iron, Wrought Iron
Small Antique Fireplace Mantel with
Located in Haarlem, Noord-Holland
Antique Black Marble Corbel Fireplace Mantel with Fossil Inclusions
Offered by Schermerhorn Antique Fireplaces
This elegant 19th-century black marble fireplace mantel is a sophisti...
Category
Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Marble, Belgian Black Marble
19th Century French Green Enameled Cast Iron Heater Stove
By A. Klein
Located in Den Haag, NL
A late 19th century French enameled cast iron parlor heating stove. This antique stove features a tubular shaped body with two doors and a removable Cer...
Category
Antique 1890s French Victorian Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Enamel
Glamorous Brass Mantel by Danny Alessandro circa 1970s Fireplace
Located in Atlanta, GA
Glamorous brass fireplace mantel by Danny Alessandro, American, circa 1970s. It measures 41"H x 54"W.
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Brass
An Antique French Louis XV Marble Fireplace Mantel
Located in London, GB
A carved Carrara Marble antique 19th century Louis XV style "Tres Coquilles" fireplace. The Cantered console jambs with scrolled panels and surmounted by a carved shell. The serpenti...
Category
Antique 19th Century French Louis XV Fireplaces and Mantels
Materials
Carrara Marble


