A Refined Neoclassical 18th Century Chimneypiece with a Light and Elegant Design in Painted Timber

A hand-painted panel after a Neoclassical design in the manner of Angelica Kaufmann is at centre of the frieze, depicting a cupid holding a thyrsus, playing together with two female figures, possibly Flora and Diana or simply two muses. The pilaster jambs with Corinthian capitals are headed by cornerblocks with painted panels depicting young dancing female figures. An almost identical timber chimneypiece was designed for the ante Dining Room in Bourdon House in Berkley Square, built in 1721–5. The Georgian architect is unknown, however the painted panels of the chimneypiece were attributed to Angelica Kauffmann.