G503

A Neoclassical Column Chimneypiece in White and Siena Marble

An exceptional mid 18th century chimneypiece, the elegant moulded shelf with a dentil detail is supported by a pulvinated freeze carved in exquisite Siena marble. The jambs, in the shape of Ionic columns are also carved from the solid in Siena marble, a precious material which traditionally during the 18th century was used in the form of veneers only because of its rarity.

The restrained and architectural design of this chimneypiece is almost identical to the one on the Study at Hatrchlands Park (which originally was probably one of the bedrooms). Hatchlands Park in Worsley, Surrey, was purchased by the Admiral Boscawen in 1757 who commissioned the interiors to the architect Robert Adam. The stucco ceilings and chimneypieces are all undoubtedly by Adam's hand, and represent one of his earliest work as interior decorator.

The same linear style was later adopted by the architect Edwin Lutyens, a prolific promoter of traditional architecture during the 19th and 20th century. One of the fireplaces in the Midland Bank, Poultry, London, of which Lutyens was responsible for the interiors, bears strong esemblance with the present chimneypiece.

Provenance : The fireplace reportedly came from 21 Park Lane, but there is reason to believe that it was originally carved for Sandbeck