Rare George II Walnut and Parcel-Gilt Mirror, c. 1740

Rare George II Walnut and Parcel-Gilt Mirror
English, circa 1740

Of notably rare form, this unusual mirror retains its two original plates, divided by a pierced and foliate-carved giltwood slip, the upper plate with re-entrant corners. The walnut frame rises to outset upper corners flanking a recessed top rail. This architectural profile is original to the mirror; the unaltered construction visible on the reverse confirms that no cresting or pediment was ever intended.

The figured walnut-veneered frame is bordered with carved gilt-gesso mouldings and applied with parcel-gilt flowers and scrollwork. Pierced foliate carving descends along each side to the shaped apron, which is centered by an applied scrolled carving.

The original parcel gilding survives with a naturally aged surface, while characteristic foxing and losses to the silvering attest to the age of the plates.

Its tall, narrow proportions make it an especially useful mirror, whether hung in a pier, above a narrow piece of furniture, or simply on its own as a striking statement piece.