The shell cartouche is the heart of this Louis XV fireplace surround. Carved boldly at the centre of the panelled frieze and softened on either side by trailing foliage, it’s the signature flourish of the Rococo — and here it’s cut into fine, creamy statuary marble that catches every line of the carving. The whole composition flows with it: a serpentine shelf above echoes the curves, the shaped opening below carries them down, and the jambs are enriched with finely carved acanthus leaves for depth and texture. This is Louis Pompadour styling at its most graceful and feminine. Crisp in its carving and smoothly finished, the fireplace is in superb condition and ready for installation — and, rarely, a matching pair is available, ideal for a symmetrical scheme.

Dimensions:
Shelf: 160 cm wide × 36 cm deep
Overall height: 114 cm
Opening: 83 cm high × 106 cm wide
Jambs: 25 cm