Case Study 1 - Fireplace Mantle with Cartouche, Leaves, Moulding and Pillowing

The following images show the process of carving a fireplace header. 

In the beginning, you see the sawn six sides block, and then the application of templates, producing profile of the mantle, dropping in depth for mouldings and carving blocks on the face, and finally the carving of the cartouche in the center of the piece.