Louis XIV Royal red marble mantel - marble

Description

This 18th century mantel is a very rare example of mantels produced during the Louis XIV period. Large with straight lines, following the Bolection design much favored at the time; a thick molding runs along the curved hearth opening leaving space in the upper corners for ornaments. The ornaments here are what is most remarkable about the mantel. Instead of a simple triangular spandrel motif, the sculptor chose a powerful curl shape turned outward, reminiscent of a crosier. This motif announces the exuberant scroll motifs of the French Regence style.
This mantel is a beautiful example of the evolution of tastes and styles. It retains the majesty of the Louis XIV style and has a touch of the freedom that will emerge with the Regence style
The marble is Royal Red marble, one of the most sought after marble, before the Revolution.

Additional information

The marble is Royal Red marble, one of the most sought after Belgian marbles before the Revolution.