In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in preserving and restoring the historic features of New York City brownstones, including their fireplace mantels. Back in the day, mantels were usually made of hand-carved marble or wood. They were adorned with carvings, moldings, and decorative elements such as floral motifs, classical figures, and intricate patters as evidenced in the snippet shown here from a hard-carved Italianate marble mantel.
The prominence of fireplace mantels in brownstones started to decline in the early 20th century as architectural styles changed and heating methods shifted toward central heating systems. Today, fireplace mantels are treasured as architectural and historical artifacts. They continue to be a sought-after feature and are often renovated and restored to reclaim the original charm and character of these classic historic homes. They serve as a reminder of the city's rich architectural heritage and its connection to the past.
