FINE GEORGE II CARVED GILTWOOD WALL MIRROR
United Kingdom, probably Scottish
Circa 1750

38 7/8" H x 3 1/2" D x 19 3/8" W

A finely carved George II period giltwood mirror retaining an early beautifully patinated mercury-silvered plate, the frame richly ornamented with scrolling acanthus leaves and shell motifs in high relief. The crest is boldly projected with a chaotically pluming acanthus that is almost feather-like in its fall and flow, this flanked by voluted scrolls in a gentle broken-arch.

There is a certain loose symmetry in the frame that is made more interesting for its freedom - the carver worked within the framework of symmetry but with a pattern-averse hand, suggesting that the carving was entirely free-hand led by instinct and visual order rather than a strict plan. The sides employ a projecting oval paterae enveloped by curling acanthus in the upper, falling partial C-scrolls, a motif derived from late Baroque ornament and frequently used in Scottish carving to punctuate vertical flow. The bottom is centered with a circular paterae in relief.

Condition: Original gilding with later toning and scattered retouch, retouched gesso losses and minor cracks consistent with age. Top of cartouche projection with an old repaired crack. Early plate glass showing expected age-related foxing and waviness, not removed from frame to examine for originality. Ready to place.

ref. 510KGI15P