Antique Italian Neoclassical Gold Leaf Venetian Mirror, circa 1790

View Similar Items

Neoclassical Italian Gold Leaf Mirror with Wood Frame

Italian Modern Neoclassical Antiqued and Etched Venetian /Murano Glass Mirror

Italian Neoclassical Pier Mirror

Antique Italian Neoclassical Style Giltwood Mirror with Inset Mirrored Pieces

Antique Italian Neoclassical Style Faux Marble and Giltwood Mirror

Two Italian Modern Neoclassical Etched Venetian / Murano Glass Octagonal Mirrors

Large Antique Oval Etched Venetian Mirror

Pair of Italian Neoclassic Giltwood Mirrors

Rustic Antique Architectural Neoclassical Style Mirror

Antique Neoclassical Carved and Gilt Mirror

Neoclassical Italian White Painted and Giltwood Mirror

Neoclassical Gold Gilt Pier Mirror, 2 Section

1 of 6

Antique Italian Neoclassical Gold Leaf Venetian Mirror, circa 1790

About the Item

Receive our new selections direct from 1stdibs by email each week. Please click Follow Dealer below and see them first! A lovely antique Italian neoclassical gold leaf frame enclosing the original engraved Venetian mirror glass, circa 1790. The elegant symmetry of this mirror is indicative of upper class Italian interiors of the late 18th century where balance and restraint were highly prized. Please look at the bold cartouche at the top with its sculptural scroll. It sets the tone for every element that cascades below. On each side of the scroll the frame is pierced and flanks the central circular medallion that encloses a portrait bust of a gentleman seen in profile. Every educated person at the time would have recognized this direct connection to the values of antique roman rulers. Placed alongside this motif are more pierced scrolls that support a variety of floral blossoms more of which repeat the other. This is a clue to the handmade quality of this mirror frame that each element is different. The central mirror glass features a female figure seen in profile as she twirls in a dance while carrying a banner aloft. She is standing atop a piece of closely moved turf. Note the section of cross hatching seen in the design both above and below her figure. This was a popular decorative motif in 18th century Italy. The sides of the frame are straight and are joined at the top and bottom with a Classic scallop shell shape. The upper left and right sides are adorned with carved flourishes that again support flower blossoms and leaves. The base of the mirror is centred on a face that represents the god of wind known as Aeolus in ancient Greece. He is always characterized with a mouth and lips pursed and inflated cheeks. The face is also framed with a lovely arrangement of open scrollwork that complements the carved elements seen in the upper section. The combination of architectural forms along with allusions to the antique have created a beautiful piece of late 18th century Italian artistry that evokes a wonderful period in history.

Dimensions:
Height: 45 in (114.3 cm)Width: 24 in (60.96 cm)Depth: 1.75 in (4.45 cm)
Style:
Neoclassical (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Gold Leaf,Mirror,Etched,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
Late 18th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1790
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: EFG1461stDibs: U1010188668249