Regency Style White-Lacquered Lion & Serpent Circular Mirror, Style Thomas Hope

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Regency Style White-Lacquered Lion & Serpent Circular Mirror, Style Thomas Hope

A monumental English Regency-style carved and white-lacquered circular mirror, … Read more Regency Style White-Lacquered Lion & Serpent Circular Mirror, Style Thomas Hope

A monumental English Regency-style carved and white-lacquered circular mirror, dating to the later 20th century. The dramatic frame is formed by two deeply carved serpents arranged concentrically around a large inset beveled mirror plate. At the crest, the serpents pass through the mouth of a projecting lion mask and cross above a pendant tuft of carved fur.

The powerful combination of lion and serpent derives from the classical and archaeological vocabulary promoted during the English Regency by designers including Thomas Hope and George Smith. The bold sculptural carving also recalls the earlier architectural furniture and interiors of William Kent; however, the mirror is more accurately described as Regency style rather than as a direct copy of a documented Kent design.

Each serpent is articulated with individually carved overlapping scales, producing a richly textured frame with considerable depth. The lion mask is modeled with a furrowed brow, swept mane, and prominent muzzle, creating a strong architectural crest above the mirror. The white lacquered finish unifies the carving while allowing shadows to define the scales, mane, and crossing bodies.

In classical symbolism, the lion represents strength, courage, and guardianship. The encircling serpent traditionally suggests eternity, renewal, and wisdom through its association with the ouroboros—the serpent forming an unbroken circle. Together, the motifs create an appropriately protective and enduring surround for the reflective glass.

The substantial 33-inch circular mirror plate has a broad beveled edge, adding another reflective element between the glass and carved frame. Its generous scale makes the piece particularly suitable for an entrance hall, above a console or fireplace, or as the principal mirror in a dressing room.

The mirror presents well, with age-related surface variation, small cracks, rubbing, and scattered losses to the white lacquer consistent with its sculptural construction and later-20th-century date.

Overall dimensions:
49 in. H × 42 in. W × 4 in. D

Inset beveled mirror:
33 in. diameter See less