Art Nouveau Mirror in Gilt Brass and Leather after Gabriel Viardot, France, 1930s

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Gilded Brass and Leather Mirror, after Gabriel Viardot, Art Nouveau, early 20th century – France

Materials: Wood, brass, and leather
… Read more Gilded Brass and Leather Mirror, after Gabriel Viardot, Art Nouveau, early 20th century – France

Materials: Wood, brass, and leather
Style: Art Nouveau, after Gabriel Viardot
Period: Early 20th century
Country of origin: France
Good condition considering its age and use
Overall dimensions: 46 x 63 x 2 cm
Mirror dimensions: 32 x 37 cm

A stunning Art Nouveau mirror with a wooden frame and a front adorned with gilded brass plates and brown leather, following the designs of the renowned Gabriel Viardot. Gabriel Viardot (1830-1906) was a Parisian designer, recognized worldwide for creating truly unique furniture pieces with a distinctive and personal style. He began his career with decorative pieces, such as sculptures and mirrors, and soon began designing larger furniture pieces. His style is characterized by a Gothic essence reinterpreted through the lens of French Art Nouveau, all bearing his distinctive aesthetic signature. He also specialized in furniture with Oriental influences.

The piece features a trapezoidal, flared shape that widens organically towards the top and rests on a broad base—a silhouette typical of Art Nouveau design. The outer contour breaks with traditional forms, combining straight sections on the lower sides with pronounced, sinuous curves towards the ends. It reflects the movement's fascination with nature, elegance, and ornamental fluidity.

In addition to its form, its ornamentation is based on various relief motifs, created using the repoussé technique. The two gilded brass plates or sheets at the top display stylized figures of dragons facing each other. On the remaining surface of the frame, pieces of brown leather feature stylized and intertwined plant motifs. All the edges are finished with rows of pyramid-shaped studs. See less