Decorating the Fireplace Mantel & Hearth

The fireplace is even more of a focal point this time of year
as we light the fire for added warmth on these cold days of winter.

I've been wanting to do something different on the fireplace in the great room
and found it easier to begin with a clean slate,
so I cleared everything off.

Using things already on hand I began looking in this cupboard and that closet,

searching for pieces that would go well on the mantel,

and this is how things settled.

The great room has an equestrian theme so hanging this picture was a great place to start.

On both sides of the mantel I used brass candlesticks covered with hourglass hurricane sleeves.

I love the detail in the glass.

On the left side there is a silver creamer with dried hydrangea

and

an ironstone pitcher full of cotton for a little Southern touch.

On the right side I used a couple of old books for a little height under

a homespun heart pin cushion and an antique civil war whale oil lantern.

The clock is cherry and has an inlaid wood design.

I got it years ago at Bombay, remember that store?

On the hearth is an old butter churn crock

and a set of three stacking Angel boxes handmade by Folk Artist Rick Conant.

The brass and silver were left tarnished.

Candlelight at dusk...

I've had this antique lantern for years but didn't know much about it

until I added it to the mantel and did a little research.

What I found was very interesting...

Civil War Whale Oil Boat Lantern

Civil War Signal Lantern

Civil War

Hope you'll join us each week for AMAZE ME MONDAY...

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