Antique Louis XVI semi-statuary marble mantel with inlaid Brocatelle of Sienna, XIXth - marble

Description

This magnificent marble mantel was designed in the Louis XVI style and displays highly refined sculpture. This composition is unique in its use of Brocatelle marble from Sienna set in prestigious semi-statuary marble. The jambs are decorated with panels of Brocatelle from Sienna, underlined by a line of white semi-statuary marble creating a French panel effect, surrounded by a frame of twirling ribbons on rods. On the heads, white rosettes, carved with a particularly lively swirling effect, are set against a background of Brocatelle. The entablature frieze echoes the same play of white and Brocatelle marbles. At its center, a bas relief depicts three cherubs preparing garlands of flowers in an oval shaped pearl rimmed frame, flanked with stylized leaves and drapes. The quality and refinement of the sculpture matches the delicacy of this semi-statuary marble, creating an exceptional mantel.