19th Century Adam Style Giltwood Mirror

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A distinguished early 19th century Adams-style giltwood mirror, richly carved with classical neoclassical ornament and retaining its original surface with … Read more A distinguished early 19th century Adams-style giltwood mirror, richly carved with classical neoclassical ornament and retaining its original surface with beautifully mellowed gilding and painted accents. The crest is surmounted by an elegant urn issuing finely carved scrolling acanthus and floral garlands, emblematic of the refined symmetry and classical vocabulary popularized by Robert Adam and widely embraced in England and America during the late Georgian and Federal periods.

The rectangular mirror plate is framed by a delicately beaded and carved surround, flanked by crisply executed vertical elements terminating in stylized pendant drops and carved tassel-like ornament. Subtle traces of polychrome decoration--including warm ochre gilding and muted green painted elements--enhance the architectural quality and depth of the frame, while adding visually rich and authenticity.

The reserve reveals early construction methods, with hand-planed backboards and original fastening techniques, consistent with period craftsmanship. See less