Better Picture of Fireplace Update

Ok yes, there are home improvement trappings all through this picture, but it is better than the last one. Oh - and I'm including the before too, just so we don't forget where it started.

Now... What do we do with the mantle? It has to be painted, but what color? Ultra Pure White? Something a little less stark? The same oil rubbed bronze spray paint as the mantle? And for the record, the second pic where the brick looks so much more yellow is much more true to life than the first where it looks all creamy and neutral. That brick is anything but creamy and neutral.

Alright nonexistent readers - what say you?