The fireplace mantel, also referred to as the mantelpiece or chimneypiece, originated in medieval times. Then, it was simply a hood that projected over the fire grate to catch smoke, but the term mantelpiece has evolved over the years to include all decorative framework around the fireplace, such as the jambs, mantel shelf and over-mantel mirrors.
For hundreds of years, the chimneypiece was extremely ornate as it was of real significance within a room. With the advent of central heating, fireplaces became smaller, and both the artistic and practical significance of the mantelpiece waned. However, in recent times the modern homeowner has rediscovered the value of installing a mantelpiece and thus they are in great demand once more.
The earliest known chimneypiece is to be found in the Kings House at Southampton – Norman shafts in the joints carry a segmental arch, believed to originate from the first half of the 12th century. By the 14th century, the chimneypiece became much wider so that families could gather round the hearth – this became an indispensable part of British family life for hundreds of years, right up until the present day.
The history of the decorative style of mantelpieces mirrors the history of the architectural style of interior décor: Renaissance, French, Victorian, etc. These different mantel styles are looked into in more detail on the folllowing pages.
