The contrast of two marbles makes this French fireplace surround. A body of richly veined grey marble is set against delicate statuary marble inlay, the cool figured grey giving the piece strength while the crisp white detail brings refinement and depth. The frieze displays intricate scrolling leaf and guilloche ornament in statuary marble, with carved floral paterae framing each end-block and a large central garland resting beneath. Above, the well-figured shelf is shaped with stepped and canted corners, and the jambs are shaped and fluted, standing proud on simple foot blocks that anchor the design firmly. Flanking the chimneypiece, brass vents finely cast with an eagle bearing a crown add both symbolism and grandeur. An early 19th-century surround in the Louis XVI style, it remains striking and rare — a superb focal point for a classical interior or a point of distinction in a more modern setting.

Dimensions:
Depth of shelf: 36 cm (deepest), 31 cm (central belt)
Length of shelf: 158.5 cm (longest), 153 cm (bond to chimney breast)
Overall height: 110.5 cm
Opening: 153 cm wide × 90.5 cm tall