Maison Jansen (Atrib.) Eglomise Gilt Neoclassical Floral Trellis Jeweled Mirror

Details

Description

Maison Jansen (Attributed) Églomisé Gilt Neoclassical Floral & Trellis Mirror
France, mid-20th century
Measurements: Overall: 47" H × 41" W … Read more Maison Jansen (Attributed) Églomisé Gilt Neoclassical Floral & Trellis Mirror
France, mid-20th century
Measurements: Overall: 47" H × 41" W × 2" D Inset mirror: 39" H × 32" W

A glamorous and finely executed mirror attributed to Maison Jansen, featuring reverse-painted églomisé panels with gilt decoration in the neoclassical taste. The rectangular form is bordered by individually set mirrored tiles, each etched and gilded with scrolling acanthus, foliate sprays, and stylized trellis motifs, alternating with square medallions of rosettes. The composition has both a jewel-like sparkle and a refined architectural clarity typical of Maison Jansen’s mid-20th-century work.

Techniques

Églomisé: A traditional French technique of reverse-painting and gilding on glass. Here, the mirrored glass is acid-etched and then gilt on the reverse to achieve rich gold ornament that gleams against the reflective surface.

Etched & Gilded Motifs: The borders are decorated with scrolling acanthus and foliate arabesques, referencing Renaissance and Neoclassical ornament.

Mirrored Framing: The beveled glass panels, silvered and burnished, create depth and sparkle, enhancing the jeweled character of the piece.

Motifs

Acanthus scrolls: Evoke classical architecture and decorative carving, symbolizing enduring vitality.

Rosettes and floral medallions: Centered in square panels, these are staples of French neoclassical design, referencing antiquity and order.

Symmetrical layout: The alternating long arabesque panels and floral squares reinforce the harmony and balance central to neoclassical decoration.

Versatility

The mirror is fitted to be hung either vertically or horizontally, making it suitable as an overmantel, console mirror, or dramatic wall panel. Its large scale and luminous decoration allow it to function both as a centerpiece in classical interiors and as a glamorous accent in Hollywood Regency or eclectic settings.

Attribution

The sophisticated use of églomisé and the neoclassical decorative program is strongly associated with Maison Jansen, Paris’s most prestigious decorating firm of the 20th century, renowned for merging classical motifs with modern elegance. See less