| Article number: | IMG_6855 |
| Availability: | In stock (1) |
A powerful and rare 17th century brutalist fireplace surround in French bicolor stone, carved from Pierre de Chailluz, the historic bayadère stone from the Besançon region. This remarkable antique fireplace mantel carries the architectural identity of eastern France, where many buildings in the historic centre of Besançon were constructed with this distinctive natural stone.
The stone reveals two exceptional colour families: warm beige-ochre tones combined with large expressive patches of blue-grey, creating a natural contrast that feels both ancient and surprisingly contemporary. Formed by nature and stronger than time, this bicolor stone gives the mantel a visual depth that cannot be reproduced artificially.
The design is minimal, raw and architectural. Its strong horizontal tablet, robust jambs and unusually powerful proportions create a brutalist presence, while the hand-carved surface retains refinement through its hammered and chamfered details. The smooth-touch areas, tool marks, softened edges and natural irregularities create an elegant tension between raw strength and timeless sophistication.
This one-of-a-kind antique fireplace mantel is more than a fireplace surround; it is an objet d’art and an authentic architectural element for a unique interior with character. Its raw elegance integrates beautifully with modern design, contemporary art, cosy historic living, French Provençal interiors, mountain lodges, country houses or strong minimal interiors where material, texture and authenticity are essential.
Used around a large open firebox, for example a large Isokern firebox, it becomes an unusual statement decor element. It can also be installed as a purely decorative architectural frame against a wall or within a bespoke interior composition, bringing the presence of 17th century French stone architecture into a modern home.
Condition: The wear and condition are consistent with age and use. Ready for installation. Maison Leon Van den Bogaert Antique Fireplaces And Architectural Elements can provide the cutting to one straight line of the back for against flat wall installation.
Dimensions:
157 cm Exterior Width 61.81 Inch
106 cm Exterior Height 41.73 Inch
89 cm Exterior Height+ 35.04 Inch
124 cm Interior Width 48.82 Inch
89,5 cm Interior Height 35.24 Inch
72 cm Interior Height+ 28.35 Inch
31 cm Depth Tablet 12.20 Inch
33 cm Depth Tablet+ 12.99 Inch
65 cm Depth Jambs 25.59 Inch
612 Kg
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