Top Half of Chimney Breast

Artist:UnknownHerter Brothers

Medium: Mahogany, mirrored glass

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:ca. 1881

Dimensions: Overall mantel (41.980.72a-e): 129 x 100 1/4 x 12 5/16 in. (327.7 x 254.6 x 31.3 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 41.980.72b

Catalogue Description:
Top half of chimney breast from mantel (41.980.72a-e); consists of three tall, narrow, arched mirrors set within elaborate mahogany framework. Each mirror has beveled edge and consists of two parts surrounded by copper trim: main rectangular section below a semi-circle. Molded wooden frame around each mirror and spandrels carved in relief with acanthus leaves and decorative scroll work. Mirrors set between four fanciful columns: columns have elaborate urn-shaped capital with acanthus leaf decorations, fluted shaft, and tall cylindrical base with beading around top and acanthus leaves around bottom that "sprout" straight stem with round, dimpled buds of alternating heights. [Photograph shows mantle in its original location, the library of the house of John Sloane, 883 Fifth Avenue, New York City, decorated by Herter Brothers, 1881-82.]

Brooklyn Museum