A 19th Century Neoclassical Chimneypiece with Reeded Columns and Corinthian Capitals

A finely executed early 19th century chimneypiece, made in Italy for the English market. The design features tapering fluted columns rising from socle bases, capped with crisply carved Corinthian capitals. The frieze is adorned with acanthus and palmette motifs, palm tree leaves representing triumph and fertility. Unusual vertical, rectangular corner blocks are adorned with acanthus leaf rosettes. At the centre of the chimneypiece, we find a carved tablet likely depicting the dramatic scene from Virgil's Aeneid of Evander and Pallas where King Evander grieves upon hearing about the death of his son, Pallas. The tale underscores the tragic consequences of war, the powerful bond between father and son, and highlights the Neoclassical ideals of sacrifice and stoic emotion.