Hello Dave,

I’m glad that you chose Mearto for your online appraisal request,

Considering the photographs, overall pattern, carving quality and the wooden composition,
I concluded that this is a beautiful Quarter Sawn Oak Fireplace Mantel from 1940-1960 period. The piece seems like it's in a very good condition. Also it's mirror is damage free. Your piece's oval carved decoration and lighter coloured varnish are details that helps me to differ it from early 20th or late 19th century pieces. Back in early 20th century or late 19th century we do see pieces with a darker varnish, also the general decoration is more geometrical. This pieces' decoration was sometimes characterized or enriched by mythological-ancient additions. While in your piece's case the decoration is a little simpler and characterized by circular decoration.

This type of decoration was very famous among artistic brands and circles in mid-century. Especially this decoration can be heavily observed in wall pendulum clocks with a wooden body. The craftsmanship of the works seems pretty neat. Designs are created nicely and by an experienced master obviously. Quarter sawing technique is also very important in this case since it makes the piece more valuable and durable. Craftsman usually used this technique in higher quality pieces to make them more durable to moist. Also, this technique helps creating a certain type of visual illusion by the natural patterns of the wood. This can be observed with a closer look at the connecting points. Very collectable piece in overall.

Dimensions: Whole Piece is 86 Inches tall and 76 Inches Wide, Fireplace Opening is 41 Inches Wide and 42 Inches Tall.

Condition: Very good condition.

Provenance: Unknown.

Entirely hand crafted from Oak Wood by using Quarter Sawn Technique.

1800-2400$

Please don’t hesitate to reach us again for more online appraisals on your precious items, thank you for choosing Mearto.