Antique 19th Century Victorian Slate Fireplace Surround | Nostalgia

A substantial antique 19th century Victorian slate fireplace surround, dating to circa 1880.

The surround has a strong architectural quality, with substantial upright jambs with deeply incised fluting, stepped mouldings and circular bosses. A broad frieze spans the opening, centred by a prominent raised circular boss surrounded by elegant curved detailing and flanked by restrained rectangular panels. The generous mantel shelf above has a softly moulded edge and gives the fireplace particularly pleasing proportions.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of this fireplace is the natural banding visible within the slate itself. Subtle grey stripes and tonal variations can be seen throughout the surround, but are particularly prominent across the broad polished mantel shelf, where a series of contrasting bands run through the dark slate.

These markings are entirely natural rather than painted, applied or inlaid decoration. s slate is a sedimentary rock variations within the original layers of sediment and their mineral composition can remain visible within the finished stone. When the slate is cut and polished, these ancient geological layers can reveal themselves as contrasting bands and stripes, as particularly well demonstrated by this fireplace. The result gives the surround an individual character

Restored and finished the surround retains its crisp architectural detailing while the polished surfaces subtly reveal the natural character and variation of the slate. A particularly attractive example of a Victorian slate fireplace, equally suited to a period interior or as a strong architectural feature within a contemporary scheme.

Shelf: 167.5 cm wide × 30.5 cm deep (65.94” × 12.01”)
Overall height: 124 cm (48.82”)
Width at base: 146 cm (57.48”)
Opening: 95.5 cm wide × 95 cm high (37.60” × 37.40”)
For more sizes see the size diagram in the image gallery

Please note that all measurements are approximate.