Rosette Medallion Limestone Mantel with an Arched Opening

A substantial mantel whose shelf is built up from several limestone lengths, stepping out on shallow moulding and left visibly jointed. The frieze is plain except for one carved round medallion at the centre, cut with a rosette inside a beaded ring, with square blocks marking each end. Below, the opening turns in a low segmental arch of narrow voussoirs and is closed by iron framed fire doors. The stone is honey to grey, mottled and stained. Photographed between two upholstered chairs, it suits living rooms, libraries, farmhouses and country house restorations.