MANTEL

Creator(s): Wedgwood (Manufacturer)

On view in: Adam Bedroom

About this object

The mantel is carved from marble and has Wedgwood-style plaque inserts. The frame above the fireplace opening is made in variegated marble, the rest of the mantel being made in white marble. The ledge has a dented motif directly underneath. At either side of the opening is a flat pilaster carved in low relief with acanthus leaves, and long strings of bell-flowers, some pendant and some interlaced. There is a small oval pendant with a woman's head within one of the bellflower ovals. The capitals are decorated with a series of upright feathers or leaves, a motif that continues across much of the front. Above the capitals, on either side, is an upright oval Wedgwood plaque in blue jasperware which is set within a rectangle. At the right is a maiden in flowing classical costume who carries a rope of flowers. At the left is a maiden who scatters roses. In the center of the front is a large rectangular panel made in blue jasperware which shows Priam being informed of the death of Hector after a design by John Flaxman. This is part of the Achilles series. At either side of is carved in low relief on a white marble rectangle two bowknots which are joined by swags of flowers.

Object name:

MANTEL

Made from:

Marble -- jasperware

Made in:

London, England

Date made:

ca. 1785-1899

Size:

140.3 x 183.2 cm (55 1/4 x 72 1/8 in.)

Detailed information for this item

Catalog number:

22.20

Class:

STONE

Signature marks:

Credit line:

Bequest of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1973