Large and impressive carved white Carrara marble fireplace

This exceptional fireplace is crafted in the Louis XVI style, and combines Neoclassical and Rococo decorative elements.

Beneath the shallow mantel sits a heavily decorated apron. The frieze is centred with a high-relief mask of the Greek sun god Helios (sometimes linked to Apollo), identified by the sun and sunflower motifs. The head sits within a winged cartouche, applied with ribbon and foliate decoration. The side panels of the frieze are decorated with high relief floral and foliate designs, and are surrounded by beaded borders. The surround features dentil moulding.

The two Ionic jambs feature similarly superb figurative decoration. The high relief terms each comprise a sculpted figurative bust wearing a crown of flowers. The robes of the figures are also centred by a sunflower, linking to the frieze above. The busts taper into the bases of the fluted ionic columns, which are wrapped with foliate designs.

All sections are carved from bright white Carrara marble, which evokes the majesty of classical design. Both the frieze and the jambs are exceptionally moulded with sculptural deftness, adding to the impressive nature of the piece.

Expertly crafted in the dominant style in 19^th century France, this imposing piece of marble furniture would be a stand-out addition to the appropriate interior space.