What is a Mantlepiece?
A mantlepiece, or mantle, is a shelf mounted above an open fireplace. The term mantlepiece is used to refer to the surrounding decorative facing as well in some cases. In England, the mantlepiece is referred to as a chimneypiece. Mantlepieces come in a wide range of designs and materials to add decorative accents to open fireplaces. The mantlepiece itself is a useful place to display photographs and decorative objects, although potential heat damage should be considered when placing them in close proximity to a fire. Open fireplaces can be installed without a mantlepiece when a simple and unadorned aesthetic is desired. In other cases, the mantlepiece may be restricted to a plain shelf above the fireplace. Full mantlepieces which act as a facing for the entire fireplace are also available, although they tend to be more costly. Usually a mantlepiece is designed and installed with the overall look of a room in mind. Especially in homes which reflect a certain historical period, a mantlep
