‘Grand Psyche’, monumental Art Nouveau mirror by Maison Millet

‘Grand Psyche’, monumental Art Nouveau mirror by Maison Millet
French, c. 1900
Height 270cm, width 170cm, depth 57cm
 
This exquisite antique mirror was crafted around 1900 by the esteemed French furniture maker Maison Millet. Named ‘Grand Psyche’ after the bronze statuette at its base, this large-scale mirror is encased in elegant citron wood with intricate marquetry patterns.
 
Its distinctive rectangular shape, topped with an arched crown, features decorative elements rich in detail. The central figure of Psyche and the charming putto on the opposite diagonal are both expertly cast in bronze. A striking perfume vase made from fluorspar adorns the other side of the base, enhancing the mirror's opulence. Gilded accents run throughout the piece, with an ornate floral crest as the centerpiece. Delicate floral vines surround the glass, and fittings within the upper right-hand blooms indicate that the mirror originally featured electric light bulbs, as confirmed by historical illustrations. The mirror's graceful, flowing foliate designs are classic hallmarks of the Art Nouveau style, which was highly fashionable at the turn of the century.
 
On the reverse side of the ormolu centrepiece is the stamp ‘MB’ (Millet Bronzier) for Maison Millet. This furniture making firm earned international acclaim, including a gold medal at the 1889 Paris Universal Exhibition and the Grand Prize at the 1900 Exposition Universelle—where this mirror was prominently displayed.
 
The large bronze Psyche figure is signed by the renowned sculptor Claudius Marioton (1844–1919), who received prestigious awards such as a silver medal at the 1889 Universal Exhibition and a gold medal in 1890.
 
Featured in the official 1900 Paris Exhibition catalogue, the mirror is described as: ‘Grand Psyche, in citron wood and marquetry / Figures in bronze with mercury gilt, signed Cl. Marioton. Perfume vase in Fluorspar. Designed and made by M. Millet’. Maison Millet’s Grand Prize win that year underscores the exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance of this piece.
 
With its impressive design and remarkable provenance, this antique mirror would make a magnificent focal point in any sophisticated interior.
 
Literature:
Jonathan Meyer, Great Exhibitions 1851-1900: London-Paris-New York-Philadelphia, pg. 320
Victor Champier, Les industries d'art à l'Exposition universelle de 1900, pg. 311
 
Artist/Maker: Maison Millet