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A Regency, carved Statuary marble chimneypiece, circa 1815. The rectangular shelf is carved with recessed bead moulding and sits above a richly decorated frieze, centred by an anthemion and flanked by leafy cornucopia spilling scrolls, acanthus leaves and paterae. The moulded opening is flanked by squared jambs caved with Neo-Classical pedestals that are decorated with rams heads and swags. Raised on splayed feet, the pylons are enriched with anthemions and flaming bowls supported by richly carved scrolls, leaves and foliage.
This dramatic Regency chimneypiece reflects the strong Neo-Classical influence of the great Italian designer, Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778). Piranesi’s pioneering folio “Diverse maniere d’adornare I cammini ed ogni altra parte degli edifice” published in 1767, was to have profound influence on the development of the Neo-Classical movement. It is possible that this piece was commissioned by an English Grand tourist whilst in Italy for use in an English House. (Reg. Code I10)
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