The mantle has nice character. It is nerve wracking to hang but with enough research and preparation I was able to mount it very securely to the brick. 

I used four 12 inch lag sleeves and lag bolts. I also put adhesive in the holes of the mantle and along the back. I can hang on it and it wont move at all. 

Note I also had to angle grind the bolt heads off before sliding it in the holes I drilled into the wood. Sounds intimidating but it was worth it!