G531

A refined George III chimneypiece carved in white statuary marble in the manner of Robert Adam (1728-92).

An elegant breakfront shelf is supported by a fluted frieze with repeated enclosed paterae with festooned decoration in the background. The cornerblocks are carved with the same paterae within a laurel wreath. The fluting detail continues on the jambs, ending on squared footblocks. The elegant manner of this composition recalls the work of Robert Adam as interior decorator. In the present chimneypiece classical architectural elements have been gently reinterpreted through the 18th century vocabulary typical of the architect, who is considered the most prominent exponent of British Neo-classicism. A comparable fireplace is the one designed for Edwin Lascelles's dressing room in 1768.