17th Century French Hand-Chiseled Stone Fireplace Mantel

About the Item

Removed from a chateau in northern France, this exquisite fireplace mantel is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and historic charm. Hand-chiseled or carved from "ancient stone," believed to date back to the 17th century or even earlier, it features a striking fluted and ribbed design along each leg and the header. This mantel bears the traces of its rich history, with areas of old, cream-colored crackled paint and remnants of old black paint or soot around the legs and shelf top. The overall appearance showcases signs of hand-chiseled areas, reflecting its age and remarkable craftsmanship from many years ago. With its beautiful, authentic look and captivating character, this fireplace mantel exudes a sense of history and sophistication, making it a truly remarkable addition to any home. Found in Normandy, France, 17th century, and made of “ancient” stone. The fireplace is currently in three pieces (as removed), does not stand on its own, and requires professional installation. Mantel has been lightly cleaned, but not altered in any way. There is damage at the bottom of the left leg, but it was done a long time ago, even the damaged area has a great patina. It could be left as-is, or the missing area could be filled in with a stone patching compound or replaced with a new, carved stone by a local mason. There is a small corner of the mantel ledge that has broken off, but is an easy repair and can be reattached. An approximately 4” diameter hole is in the left leg. Some damage (or purposeful carvings) can be found on both outer legs, most likely from the original installation method. Overall, the mantel is approximately 51.75” W x 50” H x 12.75” D at the shelf. The legs are 5” W and 11.25” D. The shelf and header are 6.5” H. The firebox opening is approximately 39.5” W x 43” H.

Dimensions:

Height: 50 in (127 cm)Width: 51.75 in (131.45 cm)Depth: 12.75 in (32.39 cm)

Materials and Techniques:

Stone

Place of Origin:

France

Period:

17th Century

Date of Manufacture:

Unknown

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. There is a small corner of the mantel ledge that has broken off, but is an easy repair and can be reattached. An approximately 4” diameter hole is in the left leg. Some damage (or purposeful carvings) can be found on both outer legs, most likely.

Seller Location:

Mckinney, TX

Reference Number:

1stDibs: LU7326239700132

View Invoice