Lombardy Baroque Style Gilded Mecca Mirror, 18th Century

Details

Description

Lombard Mecca-gilded mirror

Period: Second half of the 18th century (Late Baroque)

Geographical Area: Lombardy, Italy

Material and Technique: Carved … Read more Lombard Mecca-gilded mirror

Period: Second half of the 18th century (Late Baroque)

Geographical Area: Lombardy, Italy

Material and Technique: Carved wood, Mecca-gilding on a bole base, contemporary mercury mirror.
Dimensions: 159 x 88 cm.
Structural and Stylistic

Important mirror in finely carved and Mecca-gilded wood, a superb example of the refined and vigorous Lombard cabinetmaking of the mid-18th century. The structure is distinguished by its flowing and eclectic lines.
The Cornice

The cornice is the most valuable and compositionally original element. It is arranged around a central openwork medallion (openwork) enclosed by a double opposing scroll. The cornice is crowned and connected to the shaft by eye-catching curled acanthus leaves and wavy moldings that create a dynamic interplay of solids and voids.
The Shaft and Side Panels

The rectangular frame encloses the mirror's light and is embellished along the uprights with eye-catching lateral arches. These connecting elements consist of large curled scrolls, leafy tendrils, and large acanthus leaves, masterfully carved with a "podded skin" and embossed motif, which extend outward, expanding the volume of the object. The internal and external profiles feature a double groove molding.
The Base (Feet and Apron)

The mirror rests on two sturdy, wavy and shaped bracket feet, also richly adorned with curled scrolls. The two stable feet are connected by a lower apron (crosspiece) carved with a mirrored double scroll motif that lightens the base and consistently echoes the design of the cornice.
Condition and Gilding

Gilding: The object retains its splendid original Mecca gilding (a resin- and shellac-based lacquer applied over silver leaf to imitate pure gold, typical of Northern Italian high-end craftsmanship). The patina features characteristic warm hues, natural oxidation, and a slight, fascinating wear in the most prominent areas, revealing the underlying preparation, confirming the piece's authenticity and age.
The frame has no structural restorations, cracks, or missing parts. See less