A Magnificent Regency Giltwood Convex Mirror
CIRCA 1820
Height: 77" Width: 54"
Inventory Number 8295-74
Price
$180,000
Description
The circular plate within an ebonised reeded slip and molded frame applied with spherules with the inner edge carved with Greek key decoration and the outer edge with laurel leaves; surmounted by a Prince of Wales plume and foliate spray cresting supporting an outstretched eagle; the sides hung with palm leaves; issuing foliate-carved scrolling two-light candlearms supporting brass candle holders with faceted drip pans and pendant glass drops.
Illustrated
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Additional Information
This exuberantly large convex mirror celebrates the naval victories of England in the Napoleonic Wars. The outstretched eagle was a particularly favored device in early 19th century Britain, sitting atop mirrors or enriching the bases of console tables around the country. Here, the eagle surmounts the Prince of Wales plume, representing England, and holds in its beak chain-shot, a type of ammunition designed to destroy an enemy ship’s mast and riggings.
As an ancient Roman military symbol, the eagle was thought to be the messenger of the all-powerful god, Jupiter, and was the supreme standard carried by all the Roman legions. The palm fronds wreathing the sides of the mirror, and used in antiquity toncrown winners of athletic competitions, here announce Britannia as the victor of the long arduous war with France.