Fireplace (Chimney Piece and Mantel) Design
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-385-5
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
François II de Poilly1666–1741), a skilled French engraver, created this *Fireplace (Chim Piece and Mantel) Design* in 1712, capturing the grandeur of early 18th French decorative arts. As a print in the Smithsonian American Art Museum collection—purchased by the Advisory Council—this work exemplifies Poilly's expertise in reproductive engraving, a technique that allowed intricate architectural and ornamental designs to be widely disseminated among architects, craftsmen, and patrons. Fireplaces were focal points in opulent interiors during France's late Baroque era, under Louis XIV's enduring...