An Elegant 18th Century Neo-Palladian Chimneypiece Carved in Portoro Nero, with Statuary Marble Details

An early-Georgian fireplace of balanced design, the stepped and moulded breakfront shelf rests on an eared surround. The bracket shaped end blockings are decorated with three calyx pods of acanthus. The jambs are in the shape of elongated bracket s consoles with spiral volutes.

This design in its simplest forms finds its origins with Inigo Jones during the first half of the 17th century, and was then reinterpreted by numerous architects during the revival of the Palladian style in the early 18th century, one of these being William Kent, as shown in one of his drawings here below. The baroque ornamental details in white marble emphasize the plain and symmetrical surfaces typical of Palladianism. A chimneypiece similar in style can be found in the Library at Houghton Hall.