G416

A Very Refined Adam Period Chimneypiece Carved in White Statuary Marble.

The frieze is ornamented with enclosed alternating flowers within the lozenge, and with a central tablet depicting two sphinx holding a paterae. The iconography of the sphinx originally derives from ancient Egyptian sculptures, and it was later revived in the Renaissance and again during the Neoclassical period, particularly during the Egyptian revival. The paneled jambs are wrapped with lotus leaf clasps at the top, followed by delicate bell flowers, and headed by corner blocks filled with carved paterae. A very similar design by Adam can be found in the Dining Hall at Osterley House.