19th Century French Gold Leafed Louis Philippe Style Mirror With Central Cartouche

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An exceptional take on the timeless French Louis Philippe-style mirror, dating to the 1800s. Mirrors of this style are easily … Read more An exceptional take on the timeless French Louis Philippe-style mirror, dating to the 1800s. Mirrors of this style are easily recognized by their rounded upper corners and clean lines. What separates this gold-leafed mirror is the striking cartouche crest, as carvings on Louis Philippe mirrors are usually more subtle.

A row of beading surrounds the glass, which is a common motif of Louis Philippe mirrors, as are the gently carved floral vines that meander along the protruding center molding. At the top of each upper corner is a hand-carved flowering vine that runs up to the sides of the shaped console that is adorned with a foliate margent flanked by two C-scrolls over a patterned ground. The flowering vines also run down the lower sides of the console, terminating at the side of a large foliate cluster beneath the console. Another leaf with tripartite tips, fluting, and roundels tops the elaborate cartouche. The gold leafing is exquisite, helping to bring the carvings to life. A mirror with depth to the carvings, such as this Louis Philippe with central cartouche, would most likely have been designed for placement in grander rooms in French chateaus, possibly above a console or mantel. See less