What We Like About This Fireplace Mantel This fireplace mantel curves inward and has the furrowed light brown surface of a basswood tree. The ridges of the front give the shelf a natural asymmetry that cannot be duplicated by man or nature. The top of the mantel is flat for awards or pictures.Please note: Mantel shelf will vary slightly from the one shown. Because each log is different each mantel has its own unique grain and characteristics. These differences do not affect the structural stren gth of the mantel