Mid century modern starburst mirror from France c. 1940

A surprising mid century modern mirror from France c. 1940. These mirrors that resembled rays emanating from a central disc first appeared during the reign of Louis XIV (1643-1715) and were direct references to his divine status. Known as the Sun King, all of the royal power of France was concentrated directly in him and he possessed absolute authority. This mirror is a contemporary twentieth century interpretation of this classic shape. The mirror glass in this example is a circular mirror glass encircled by a mix of steel and then a larger ring in a rope twist shape. Each of the sun's rays are individual pieces of steel with a shape that begins wide around the mirror and tapers to a narrow point at the farthest distance from the centre. Please notice that each ray has been fashioned to have a raised central edge in order to create a three dimensional sculptural effect. Because each ray is a different length there is a visual sense of movement around the outer edge. This mirror possesses a unique sense of drama and will be a striking addition to either a modern or traditional interior.