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Why do fireplaces have mantels?

1 Answer
Why do fireplaces have mantels?
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.
1stDibs ExpertMarch 29, 2024
Shop for Fireplaces and Mantels on 1stDibs
Maison Jansen fireplace mantel brushed steel and carved stone 1968
Located in Paris, IDF
This impressive fireplace mantel was executed by Maison Jansen in 1968 for a mansion in Paris 16th arrondissement, under Pierre Delbée supervision. Executed in brushed stainless stee...
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Stone, Steel

Palatial Statement Chimney Piece In Sarrancolin Marble For Luxury Design
Located in Beervelde, BE
This stunning 18th-century period fireplace mantel, sculpted in exclusive Royal Sarrancolin Fantastico marble, showcases intricate carvings and decorations, including a central shell...
Category

Antique 18th Century Belgian Baroque Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Marble

18th Century Provencal Ornate Fireplace Mantel In Bleu-Turquin Marble
Located in Beervelde, BE
Introduce warmth and elegance to your space with this stunning antique marble fireplace from Provence. The combining shades of grey-blue, bleu-Turquin, and reddish-pink, Fleur-de-Pêc...
Category

Antique Early 18th Century French Regency Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Marble

Antique Regency Carved Wooden Fireplace Surround
Located in Ware, GB
Antique Georgian carved fireplace surround in pine. This wooden fireplace surround features finely carved detailing, reeded columns, a bow-fronted shelf and panelled frieze. A hand...
Category

Antique 19th Century French Regency Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Wood, Pine

French Napoleon III 'Hunt at the Court' Fireback / Backsplash
Located in Soest, NL
20th century French Napoleon III fireback with a hunting scene. The fireback is made of cast iron. The patina is natural brown. Upon request it can be made black / pewter at no extr...
Category

20th Century French Napoleon III Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Iron

Rustic Traditional Wooden Farming Milking Stool - France, Circa 1920
Located in Barcelona, ES
Rustic Traditional Wooden Farming Milking Stool - France, Circa 1920 Step into the charm of the past with this rustic traditional wooden farming milking stool, crafted in France cir...
Category

Vintage 1920s French French Provincial Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Wood

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