Large Louis Phillipe Pier Mirror

A large and heavy Louis Phillipe pier mirror in excellent original condition. With typical softly rounded top corners, beaded inner edge and a mercury glass split-plate. 165.5cm x 86.5cm (65 x 34 inches). Early to mid 19th century, circa 1840’s.

Without losses or restorations, this is a lovely example. Of unusual tall and slender proportions with beautifully worn gilding all over. The red bole showing through the gilt gives it a real warmth and softness. The split plate (a manufacturing necessity for large mirrors prior to the mid 19th century) points to this being an early example.

The plates have scattered small foxing marks throughout and, concentrated at the bottom edge of each plate, the very fine sparkles sometimes called diamond dust. This is caused by minute breakdowns in the silver backing and gives the glass a lovely ethereal quality. Striations known as ream, from the process of folding and hand rolling the glass, cause a light rippling effect as you move your eye over the piece. The split glass creates a disconnect in the reflection between the upper and lower plates; a vertical line in the upper portion may not align with the same line in the lower, which adds another layer of interest and charm.

Condition: Overall excellent. There are some very small marks along the bottom edge where the gilt has been lost and the white gesso is visible.​​

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