Regency Convex Giltwood Mirror with Eagle and Sea Serpents
Regency Convex Giltwood Mirror with Eagle and Sea Serpents
A sizable antique giltwood convex mirror carved in an assured hand with an eagle on top and swirls of carved and gilded acanthus foliage at the sides, the uppermost transforming into fantastical sea serpents. A tautly carved scallop shell embellishes the bottom, in which a nice patina is evident, showing some black clay bole undercoating to the gilding. Retains original gilding throughout, with patina, distress, small scattered restorations and touchups to the gilding and losses. The external carved elements have been reinforced with metal brackets installed behind, to better support them. The gilded balls within the frame have surface distress and more gilt loss than seen elsewhere- a few have been replaced. Retains excellent original Mercury glass convex mirror plate, ebonized reeded surround and wooden back. Ca. 1810-20.
H: 45 W: 31 D: 9