A Louis XVI style white marble fireplace surround French, 19th century

the rectangular top inset within an acanthus cast molded frieze and above a bow with entwined garlands, the sides fitted with tapering fluted quiver-shaped columns with feather capitals, with later metal liner (not illustrated). 

Extensive tarnishing and dirt to gilt-bronze with oxidation points in places. The marble with the usual nicks, chips and scratches consistent with age and use. Some gilt-bronze mounts will need to be tightened. Restoration to marble in places now showing filler. The chimney was once set in a wall and shows a mark at approximately 3 inches on sides and top where it was set.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

On the present lot, it is interesting to compare the exquisite frieze mounts which are virtually identical to those on a white marble fireplace at the Château de Fontainebleau. The original cast might be attributed to the celebrated bronzier Pierre Gouthière (1732-Paris 1813), after a design by François Joseph Bélanger, (1744-Paris 1818).