2006/1032 Philadelphia Compositon Mantel c.1805-1820

To an important Philadelphia soft pine fireplace mantelpiece. The triple arcaded shelf is richly moulded and supported by a course of vertical gouge carving interrupted by oval sunbursts. The mantel frieze has three applied tablets. The whole of the frieze retains the original neoclassic composition enrichments, believed to have been made by Robert Wellford. These include two paterae of Diana of the Hunt. The center tablet has a tribute to the gods, a chariot pulled by lions being trumpeted in by Dawn. A moulded and gouge carved belt course with wavy line crosses the end tablets and is stopped by the central tablet. The mantel jambs or legs are mounted with richly moulded reeded pilaster with moulded capitals and bases footed on projected plinths. The hearth opening has a quartered round section in fillets. The mantel has been hand cleaned of all old paint buildup, woodwork repairs have been made as necessary and a rich hand rubbed patina finish applied. Should you wish to paint the mantel, use a soft cloth with turpentine to remove any wax from the surface of the mantel prior to painting. NOTE: This mantle should be installed by your mechanic in accordance with all local fire and building codes. (#1759)