Antique Marble Fireplaces

At De Opkamer, we offer an impressive collection of over 400 antique marble fireplace mantels dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Each antique mantel (sometimes called a chimneypiece or fireplace surround) is a unique piece of history, sourced from grand European estates and chateaux. These authentic fireplaces have been meticulously restored to their former glory, ready to become the centerpiece of a new home.

With over 30 years of experience, De Opkamer has built a reputation as a trusted international specialist in antique fireplaces and mantels. Interior designers, architects, and discerning homeowners worldwide turn to us for the finest vintage mantels and chimneypieces. We provide expert guidance and ship our fireplaces across the globe, so clients in the US, UK, Europe, Australia and beyond can confidently incorporate these treasures into their projects.

Beyond their practical function, an antique marble fireplace mantel brings timeless elegance and character to any interior. Whether enhancing a period restoration or adding contrast in a contemporary space, a well-chosen antique mantelpiece creates a warm, inviting focal point. Below, you can explore our full collection with photos and details for each mantel in stock, making it easy to find a piece that fits your style and specifications.

Our Antique Marble Fireplace Collection

De Opkamer’s collection of 400+ antique marble fireplaves is one of the largest of its kind, offering a wide range of styles, sizes, and marble types. This extensive collection means we have the perfect mantel for almost any interior design, from lavish Louis XV French chimneypieces to stately English Victorian fireplace surrounds.

Each fireplace mantel in our collection is a genuine antique, typically crafted in the 1700s or 1800s by master artisans. We source these pieces primarily from France, Belgium, and Italy, where marble fireplaces were central features in elegant manors, palaces, and townhouses. Because our assortment is so broad, you will find everything from monumental château mantels for grand spaces to more understated designs suitable for cozy living rooms.

• Unrivaled Selection: Hundreds of antique marble mantels in stock, with new finds added regularly.
• Historical Authenticity: Original period pieces (no reproductions), complete with aged patina and provenance from European estates.
• Expert Restoration: Every mantel is structurally inspected, cleaned, and carefully restored by our craftsmen, ensuring it is ready for installation.
• Worldwide Shipping: Secure global delivery available for all our fireplaces, with professional packing and crating to protect these heavy, fragile items in transit.

We invite you to browse the gallery below to view our current offerings. Each listing includes multiple photos, detailed dimensions, material descriptions, and the style or era of the mantel. With such a comprehensive collection at your fingertips, you can compare different designs and marble types side by side.

Historical Elegance: Styles and Craftsmanship

Antique marble fireplace mantels owe their beauty to the eras and artisans that produced them. Most of our pieces originate from the 18th and 19th centuries, a time when fireplaces were both sources of heat and symbols of wealth. In France, successive design periods – from the elaborate Baroque and Rococo of Louis XIV and Louis XV to the refined Neoclassical lines of Louis XVI and Empire style – all left their mark on fireplace design. A Louis XV marble chimneypiece, for instance, might feature asymmetrical curves and shell motifs, while a Louis XVI mantel often showcases straighter lines, fluted columns, and classical motifs.

Across the Channel, Victorian-era marble mantels in Britain displayed their own elegance, ranging from robust early Victorian designs to more restrained late-19th-century styles. Regardless of origin, these mantels were hand-carved by skilled craftsmen, often taking weeks or months to complete each one. The level of detail – crisp acanthus leaves, floral garlands, mythological figures, or geometric patterns – reflects the artistry of a bygone age. Unlike modern mass-produced surrounds, each antique mantelpiece carries the subtle hallmarks of its maker and the rich patina of well over a century of history.

Marble was the preferred material for grand fireplace mantels due to its combination of durability and luxury. In lavish homes, marble surrounds were chosen over wood or limestone for their ability to be finely polished and intricately carved, as well as for their impressive variety of natural colors. Commissioned by nobility and wealthy patrons, many antique mantels were made from exotic marbles that had to be sourced from distant quarries. The result is a functional architectural element that is also a true work of art. Owning an antique marble fireplace today means preserving a piece of this artistic and cultural heritage in your own space.

Exquisite Marble Varieties and Colors

One of the most captivating aspects of antique marble mantels is the variety of stone from which they were made. Different regions and quarries produced marbles with distinct colors and veining patterns, and historical fireplace makers often selected these materials to suit the prevailing fashion or the client’s taste. From pure whites to vivid multicolored stones, our collection showcases the full spectrum of marble used in centuries past. Many antique mantels feature marbles that are now rare or no longer quarried, making each piece even more extraordinary.

• Carrara Marble: A classic white or bluish-gray marble from Italy, prized in Neoclassical designs for its subtle gray veining. Carrara marble mantels (often seen in Louis XVI style fireplaces) bring a bright, elegant look that fits both traditional and modern interiors.
• Black Marble (Noir de Mazy): A deep black marble from Belgium with delicate white veining. Antique mantels in Belgian black marble provide a dramatic contrast, and their neutral tone suits any color scheme. This material was popular in 19th-century French and Belgian fireplace surrounds.
• Brèche Médicis Marble: A luxurious brecciated marble known for its collage of rich colors (cream, gold, green, purple). Quarried in Italy (Lucca region) and used in high-end 18th–19th century mantels, it’s now extremely scarce. Our Brèche Médicis marble fireplace exemplifies the vibrant patterns and natural elegance of this stone.
• Paonazzo Marble: A rare Italian marble closely related to Carrara, distinguished by bold grey and golden veining on an off-white background. Often seen in lavish Louis XV chimneypieces, it adds visual drama. One highlight in our collection is the Paonazzo marble chimneypiece, which showcases the striking contrast and luxury of this material.
• Arabescato Marble: An elegant white marble from Tuscany, Italy, characterized by tangled, bold gray veining. It was frequently used for large, stately fireplaces. For example, an Arabescato marble fireplace in our collection features a monumental design that highlights this marble’s dramatic veining.
• Other Rare Marbles: Our inventory also includes mantels in vibrant red Griotte marble, warm yellow Siena marble, veined gray Saint Anne marble, and many more. Each type of marble lends a distinct ambiance – from the warmth of red and gold tones to the cool sophistication of blacks and whites. This diversity allows you to select a fireplace surround that perfectly complements your interior color palette and style.

By understanding the unique qualities of each marble, you can appreciate the individuality of every antique fireplace. No two mantels are exactly alike – the natural stone patterns and hand-carved details ensure that your mantel will be a one-of-a-kind statement piece. If you have a specific marble or color in mind, our team can help you identify matching pieces in our collection.

Integrating Antique Mantels in Modern Interiors

An antique marble fireplace mantel can transform the atmosphere of a room. For those restoring a period property, installing an authentic 19th-century chimneypiece can reinstate the original charm and architectural integrity of the space. However, even in new builds or contemporary settings, a vintage mantel can serve as a captivating focal point that introduces contrast and personality. Designers often use antique mantels to anchor an eclectic living space, blending old-world elegance with modern furnishings for a balanced, upscale look.

When incorporating an antique mantel into a modern home, it’s important to consider proportions and placement. Many antique mantels were designed for high-ceilinged rooms, but we also carry smaller-scale pieces suitable for more intimate spaces or apartments. Our collection ranges from grand salon fireplaces to petite bedroom mantels, ensuring you can find one that fits your room’s dimensions. Additionally, our experts can advise on adapting a mantel for use with contemporary electric or gas inserts if you plan to use it as a functional fireplace, or on simply installing it as a decorative architectural feature.

Because marble has a neutral yet luxurious presence, these antique mantels complement various interior styles. A white Carrara marble mantel, for example, pairs beautifully with both classic decor and minimalist, monochromatic rooms. Conversely, a richly colored marble surround might be used as a bold accent in a clean, modern design. In any context, the craftsmanship and patina of an antique fireplace provide a sense of history and permanence that new replicas cannot replicate. By integrating a genuine antique piece, you’re adding both value and a story to your space – a conversation piece that draws the eye and sparks imagination.

Restoration, Quality & Service

All antique fireplace mantels at De Opkamer undergo a thorough restoration and quality-check process before we offer them for sale. Our restoration philosophy is to preserve the integrity and beauty of each piece while making it ready for safe installation in a modern home. Upon arrival in our workshop, every mantel is carefully inspected for structural stability. We reinforce any internal weaknesses and meticulously clean the marble to reveal its original color and veining without stripping the desirable antique patina.

Our skilled craftsmen perform any necessary repairs using period-appropriate techniques and materials – for instance, mending a crack with special stone epoxy tinted to match, or replacing an old missing element with authentic antique marble sourced from other salvaged pieces. We avoid over-restoration; the goal is to maintain the mantel’s historical character and wear, so it retains the charm of an antique rather than looking brand new. After restoration, each fireplace surround is test-assembled to ensure all components fit together correctly, which simplifies the process for your installer on-site.

De Opkamer is committed to providing excellent service to our clients. We are happy to supply additional photographs, historical information, and one-on-one advice for any mantel you are interested in. If you need assistance with installation, we can connect you with experienced professionals or provide guidance to your builder or contractor. We also offer antique limestone fireplaces and wooden mantels if you are exploring other materials or styles. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a homeowner discovering antique mantels for the first time, our goal is to ensure you feel confident and inspired throughout the selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an antique fireplace mantel?

An antique fireplace mantel is the surround or frame around a fireplace opening that is typically over 100 years old. Most antique mantels are made of marble, stone, or wood and originate from the 18th or 19th century. They were hand-built and carved in historical styles (such as Louis XV, Louis XVI, Victorian, etc.), which gives them unique character and craftsmanship. In short, it’s a genuine period piece, unlike modern reproductions or “vintage-style” mantels.

Is there a difference between a mantel, a chimneypiece, and a fireplace surround?

These terms are often used interchangeably. Mantel (or mantelpiece) usually refers to the shelf at the top of a fireplace surround, but it is commonly used to mean the entire fireplace surround. Chimneypiece is a more old-fashioned term (often used in British English) that also means the complete fireplace surround, including the mantel. A fireplace surround is the structural frame around the fireplace opening (the legs and header), which may or may not include a mantel shelf. Essentially, all three terms in context refer to the decorative framework that encases a fireplace.

Can I install an antique marble mantel in a modern home?

Yes. Antique marble mantels can be installed in modern constructions or renovated properties alike. It’s important to ensure the dimensions of the mantel fit your space and that the firebox opening is compatible (or can be adapted) to the antique surround. Professional installation by an experienced builder or mason is recommended, as antique mantels usually come in several heavy pieces that need secure mounting. Many clients install antique mantels purely as decorative features (for example, around an electric fireplace insert or even empty, with candles in the hearth) to enjoy the ambiance without needing a chimney. With proper installation, an antique mantel can seamlessly become a stunning focal point in a contemporary home.

How do I care for and maintain an antique marble fireplace?

Marble is a durable material, but antique marble fireplaces should be cared for gently to preserve their finish. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a soft, damp cloth are usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbing, as these can damage the marble or its patina. If you need to remove soot or stains, use a pH-neutral stone cleaner and a soft sponge. It’s also wise to seal the marble periodically with a suitable stone sealer to protect it from spills or soot if the fireplace is in use. With minimal upkeep, your antique mantel will continue to look beautiful for generations.

Do you ship antique fireplaces internationally?

Yes, we offer worldwide shipping for all our antique fireplaces and mantels. We have extensive experience safely delivering these heavy, fragile items across the globe. Each mantel is disassembled (into its main components like legs, frieze, shelf, etc.) and then carefully packed and crated. We build custom wood crates and use protective padding to ensure the marble pieces arrive in perfect condition. We can arrange delivery by air freight or sea freight depending on your location and timeline. Our team will handle all necessary documentation and provide you with a shipping quote and tracking information. No matter where you are, you can confidently purchase from De Opkamer and have a piece of European history delivered to your door.

Experience Our Collection

If you are considering adding an antique marble fireplace mantel to your project, we encourage you to experience our collection firsthand. You may visit our showroom in the Netherlands to see these mantels up close — there’s nothing like viewing the intricate carvings and marble colors in person. For international clients who cannot visit, we provide high-resolution photos, videos, and virtual consultations upon request.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to receive personalized assistance in selecting the ideal fireplace. Our knowledgeable team is passionate about matching each client with the perfect mantel that meets their aesthetic vision and functional needs. With De Opkamer’s expertise and comprehensive selection, you can find a remarkable antique marble fireplace mantel that will enrich your home with history, elegance, and warmth.