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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
Late Georgian Period English Cast Iron Hob Grate
Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire
A large late Georgian / Regency period English cast iron hob grate. Dating from circa 1800, this antique hob grate was reclaimed from a London townhouse. Typical of the period, it is...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Metal, Iron

Antique Georgian Bullseye Pine Fire Mantel
Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire
An antique Georgian bullseye pine fire mantel, reclaimed from an English Norfolk farmhouse. Detailed with bullseye roundels, this impressive fire surround is designed with moulded ja...
Category

Antique Late 18th Century English Georgian Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Wood, Pine, Paint

Jacobean Style Carved Dark Oak Fire Mantel
Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire
A handsome antique Jacobean style carved dark oak fire mantel, dating to circa 1890. This eye-catching fire surround would make an impression in a period property with its dark oak f...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Jacobean Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Wood, Oak

Tall Antique English Oak Fire Mantel
Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire
A heavy and good quality tall antique English oak fire mantel dating from the Victorian era and styled in Tudor and Jacobean manners. Standing at 2m tall, this fire surround is an im...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Jacobean Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Wood, Oak

Limestone Trumeau Fireplace Mantel with Mirror
Located in Zedelgem, BE
French Limestone Trumeau Fireplace Mantel, with Mirror. You can also buy this piece without the trumeau if you like. Inside dimensions of the fireplace : 118cm wide & 90cm high Total...
Category

Antique 19th Century French Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Limestone

18th Century Trumeau Fireplace Mantel in French Limestone
Located in Zedelgem, BE
Beautiful French Trumeau Fireplace Mantel, dating from the 18th century
Category

Antique 18th Century French Other Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Limestone

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