A decorative pair of carved and gilded wall mirrors of 19th century date, executed in the George III rococo revival taste. Each mirror is of elongated shield form, the original design drawing upon mid-eighteenth-century English prototypes but interpreted with the confident carving and robust ornament characteristic of later revival work.
The crest is composed of a boldly modeled ribbon bow with deeply undercut loops and trailing ends, suspending a stylized sunburst mask with radiating rays and a classically inspired face. The central mirror plate is framed by an openwork surround of scrolling C- and S-curves enriched with acanthus foliage, the carving full and plastic in quality. The lower section features opposing volutes joined by a horizontal bar above a flared trumpet-form pendant carved with upright acanthus leaves, terminating in a descending husk-drop finial. The pierced elements create depth and shadow, enhancing the sculptural effect against the wall.
The gilded surface exhibits a warm, burnished tone with visible bole at the high points and areas of rubbing consistent with age. The mirror plates appear to be later replacements, now attractively foxed and lightly distressed, harmonizing with the antique character of the frames.
Dimensions
Height: 58.5 inches – 149cm
Width: 25 inches – 64cm
Depth: 3 inches – 8cm
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