What does a fireplace mantel symbolize?
It was the heart of the home, with a hearth providing heat, comfort, and fire for cooking to its residents. In many aristocratic households, the fireplace was even considered a status symbol, displaying how rich the homeowner is. However, the secret behind the glory of a fireplace actually lies in its mantelpiece.
What was the original purpose of a mantel?
A mantel, also known as a fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, frames the opening of a fireplace and often covers part of the chimney breast. It was originally developed in the medieval period for functional purposes, to serve as a hood that would prevent smoke from entering the room, diverting it back into the chimney.
Why is it called a mantle piece?
The fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, also known as a chimneypiece, originated in medieval times as a hood that projected over a fire grate to catch the smoke. The term has evolved to include the decorative framework around the fireplace, and can include elaborate designs extending to the ceiling.
What is meant by mantel?
Definition of mantel 1a : a beam, stone, or arch serving as a lintel to support the masonry above a fireplace. b : the finish around a fireplace. 2 : a shelf above a fireplace.
What does the fireplace symbolize?
The act of lighting a fire in the fireplace served to keep evil spirits and demons outside. In this instance of symbolism, fire is seen as the protector of the home. Symbolism extends beyond the fire itself.
What is the symbolism of a hearth?
At the center of the home, the hearth provides warmth and LIGHT, food and protection. Symbolizes love, fertility and life. Related to ANDROGYNE, with the masculine fire and the feminine receptacle.
Is mantle piece one word?
Mantle is the correct spelling in the various forms of the phrases under the mantle and take/pick up/put on the mantle. The mantle in these expressions is a metaphorical cloak (see definition 1 above).
Is a mantle considered furniture?
The vast range of mantle styles makes for lots of possibilities for using a mantle as furniture, without an actual fireplace. You can find old mantles at flea markets, antique stores and salvage sites (like my favorite Salvage One), thrift stores, or Ebay.
What is a woman’s mantle?
A mantle (from old French mantel, from mantellum, the Latin term for a cloak) is a type of loose garment usually worn over indoor clothing to serve the same purpose as an overcoat.
What is mantle social?
Solution. The middle layer of earth is called mantle. It is separated from the crust by a boundary called Mohorovicic discontinuity. It is divided into two parts, The upper mantle.
What does it mean to carry a mantle?
Definition: To assume a role of leadership that someone else once held. There are a few variations to the phrase, including pick up the mantle, carry the mantle, assume the mantle, etc.
What is the fireplace in a house called?
A fireplace or hearth is a structure made of brick, stone or metal designed to contain a fire.