It seemed appropriate on the eve of Valentine’s Day to write of my recent romance with a George III white veined Carrara and Siena marble chimneypiece attributed to John Carr of York
This exquisite antique fire surround, circa 1766 has perfect proportions and one of the finest carved centre tablets I have ever seen, and is one of the most remarkable we have ever owned. The billing doves symbolise a lovers’ embrace; a popular decorative subject in the eighteenth century.
It came from the Elizabethan Estate Methley Hall in Yorkshire, which sadly through various twists of fate fell to disrepair and was demolished in 1963.
About a year ago a descendant of the family came to see me with this chimneypiece to sell. It was wonderful to meet someone to whom this piece meant so much, and to share in his appreciation of its proportion, craftsmanship and history.
It has been a remarkable journey from first laying eyes on this enchanting piece, through to the meticulous restoration of that extraordinary tablet, and finally to its unveiling in the Pimlico Road showroom next week, but the result was worth it, like love itself. Happy Valentines!
