catalog text
REGENCY PERIOD PARCEL GILDED AND POLYCHROMED PIER MIRROR WITH CARVED LION'S HEAD
Probably England, circa first quarter of the 19th century
Item # 307YEK13A
A fine early 19th century pier mirror in the Neoclassical taste, it is beautifully developed with complex arrangements of decoration throughout. The projecting crest features a very crisp arrangement of intricately detailed leaves with a variety of berries interlaced on rising sprigs, these situated over repeating bead applieques. The top features a recessed green-painted panel with a finely carved Lion's mask surrounded by gilded relief that moves outward into trumpets. The mirror features a beautifully developed border of oak leaves with a single acorn between each.
A very powerful presentation with bold motif, it has a delightful aged aesthetic with the very old worn gilded surface throughout revealing rich colors of gold, bronze, underlying red bole and hints of the white gesso throughout.
Measurements: 57 7/8" H x 25 7/8" W x 4 1/8" D
Condition Report:
Old replaced glass with silvering losses throughout including scratches to the silvering behind the glass in the lower portion; the glass has not been examined outside of the frame, but at some point during the 20th century a panel was added to the reverse; old gilding with significant wear throughout revealing the underlying gesso and wood; extensive old worn inpainting and regilding that has overall aged with the surface to create a wonderful overall patina; painted sides of the frame with chipping/flaking; green panel paint layer refreshed at some point in the 20th century. A very nice presentation.