An Early-19th Century Statuary and Siena Marble Chimneypiece

A statuesque Recency chimneypiece of strong architectural form with opulent use of Convent sienna marble veneers and carved features. The shelf breaks forward over projecting corner blocks, upheld by caryatid legs, depicting Vestal Virgins. Vestal Virgins were priestesses in Ancient Rome who were dedicated to Vesta, the goddess of hearth, home, and family. Their role was to keep the fire in the Roman Forum permanently lit. The figures used here, besides the obvious connection to the fire, also symbolised safety and prosperity, and were a popular trope in Georgian chimneypieces. The terminate at their waists where they transfigure into plinths, standing on feet. The chimneypiece is finished with a stepped shelf and under mantle which break forward over a tablet and corner blocks carved with floral paterae.