The survival of this antique, solid oak mantel has truly been a labor of love. According to the penciled on note on the underside of the mantel cap, this was in a fire in Indiana ca. 1820 and, tho the original top and the legs didn't survive, this piece made it out with just some charring on the back side. From Indiana to Seattle, this mantel has stood the test of time with unflinching perseverance and grace. Beyond its story, this is truly a stunning mantel with loads of carefully carved floral & leaf detailing on the face as well as a pretty unique dentil accent. Some of the trim pieces feel a tad loose and may need some reinforcement, but for a 200+ year old mantel that's survived a fire I think you could say it's in pretty damn good shape. If not used as a mantel, this would be one heck of a lintel over a 5' doorway.