Images(4)

Mantel

Datec.1820

OriginAmerica, Virginia

MediumPine; Paint; Iron

Object numberAF-XVA.1

DescriptionThis c.1820 Federal style mantel has decorative faux graining over all its visible faces but not on the back. Paint analysis revealed that the first generation of paint contains a very, very light blue-green made with lead white and Prussian blue with yellow ochre. There is also a very small amount of zinc in the first generation blue paint. This suggests that the graining was done c.1845 due to the presence of zinc. The details and surviving rosehead wrought iron nails suggest the c.1820 construction date for the mantel.