French Limestone Mantel And Trumeau

Massive French Limestone Mantel and Trumeau, circa 19th century. This massive limestone mantel comes from the Chateau Fountain (Sologne, France) which belongs to the family of the wife of French president Jacques Chriac.

The fireplace mantel has a flat moulded crown above three rows of large-hewn blocks is supported by a moulded-edge frieze. The frieze is centered by a heraldic shield featuring a radiating sun within an inverted triangle. The sun was used by Louis XIV as his personal emblem and crests that feature this symbol imply a relationship to the Bourbons. Encircling the shield is a laurel wreath bundled with acanthus leaves and ties with ribbons. Supporting the chimney are two scrolling brackets applied with a single acanthus leaf. The volutes are palmette bundles finished with flower heads on the open ends. Beneath the brackets are fluted returns set upon plinth supports. Excellent Condition.