Antique Lava Stone Fireplace Mantel Louis XV Style

An antique stone fireplace mantel in lava stone, in the Louis XV manner, and a heavy, solid thing. It has the deep arched header and curving legs of the style, but the volcanic stone gives it a monolithic presence in place of the usual delicacy. The color is graphite to charcoal, flat and matte, with heavy natural pitting. A central shell and scrolling lines stand in relief on the frieze, and the jambs have recessed panels that put vertical shadows into the dark face. The porous grain of the lava softens every edge of the ornament.

It measures 57 1/2 inches wide, 23 1/4 inches deep and 47 1/2 inches high, with an opening of 48 3/4 by 40 inches and a jamb depth of 14 1/4 inches. It is reclaimed whole, jambs, lintel and shelf, from a French house. Lava stone is rare among antique fireplace mantels.

It works as a dark anchor in a formal living room, a gallery or a tall entry hall, and it is at its best against pale limewash or white plaster. The shelf takes heavy bronze or a large mirror, and the stone sits naturally with exposed timber, iron and dark oak. The stone fireplace mantel is in Marina Del Rey; come and see it, or ask for photographs and a quote.