19th Century Napoleon III Mirror in Ebonized Wood and Gilding

Details

Description

Magnificent Napoleon III style mantel mirror, with elegant proportions characteristic of its period: rounded upper corners, square lower corners, in … Read more Magnificent Napoleon III style mantel mirror, with elegant proportions characteristic of its period: rounded upper corners, square lower corners, in a generous size of 101 × 74 cm.

Its wide, matte black ebonized wood frame is adorned with a continuous frieze of arabesques and Gothic motifs in gilt stucco relief, framed by two beaded fillets. The smooth, black inner rim is highlighted with a string of gilt beads that subtly catch the light. A refined decoration, typical of the Second Empire taste for lavish ornamentation and rich materials.

The reverse reveals a traditional 19th-century construction: rough-hewn wooden planks nailed together and period protective paper, authentic evidence of its manufacture between 1860 and 1880. The overall patina is consistent with its age, with some minor flaking of the gilt decoration.

Central flaw in the silvering (visible in the photos).

Perfect above a marble fireplace, it will bring all the grandeur of 19th-century bourgeois furniture to a living room or entryway. Ready to find its place in your home. See less