I am mainly writing this blog out of exasperation. I sell a lot of over mantel mirrors. Sporadically, doubtless with the best of intent, I receive a notification on the mirror listing. I am told I have spelt mantel wrong. It should be mantle. I normally just ignore my correct spelling being challenged with the incorrect spelling. Now I have this blog I can now send the link for the sender to reappraise their own spelling!

Interesting point is John Lewis spell both over mantel and overmantle in their descriptions. They know the correct spelling but obviously know lots of people do not, so they use both.

Mantle has a number of meanings

Fashion. A mantle is a loose, sleeveless cloak or cape.

Geology. A mantle is a layer inside a planetary body. 

Status. A mantle is an important role or responsibility that passes from one person to another.

Mantel only has one.

Mantel. A mantelpiece or mantelshelf.

Therefore, the mirror that sits above a mantelpiece is an over mantel mirror.

I am delighted we have sorted this conundrum out.

The conclusion? Always best before correcting spelling to check the proper spelling first!