PAIR OF REGENCY PARCEL-GILT PIER MIRRORS WITH GRISAILLE PAINTED PANELS
England, circa 1810-30

74 7/8" H x 15 7/8" W x 1 5/8" D

A finely executed pair of English Regency pier mirrors, each composed of a tall rectangular giltwood frame with ebonized lion-mask mounts at the corners and a classical grisaille painted trumeau panel inset above the silvered glass.

The gilt surfaces are worked in low relief with a repeating acanthus-and-foliate ornament framed with a beaded inner molding. The painted panels are executed in grisaille tones and depict draped female figures in animated poses, drawn from classical antiquity and framed within arched reserves.

The lion masks at each corner are carved and ebonized, a powerful contrast to the gilded ground. The giltwood surfaces are worn and toned with age, a mixture of original gilding and later inpainting that results in a nuanced and interesting surface. 

These mirrors beautifully capture the Regency period’s fascination with archaeological classicism and decorative restraint, the thin and angular profile making them ideal statement pieces for both formal and transitional interiors.

Condition: Both mirrors replaced during the 20th century, each with some silvering loss and scuffing. Various losses to bead molding and gilded elements. Some original gilding, much of it inpainted over time. Mounting for the back will need to be installed upon purchase depending on how you plan to present them - we can also add hardware upon request. Backings are a bit sloppy and can be replaced with clean backing foamboard upon request.

ref. 507QAQ02Z