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19th C. Italian Neo-Classical Gilt Wood Mirror
Italian Neo-Clasical Gilt Wood Mirror, 19th Century of a crest with a relief medallion of Hercules and a mirror plate vordered with beading and leaves, very decorative.
H:32 3/4" W:16" D:2"
From the late 17th century onward, mirrors—and their frames—played an increasingly important part in the decoration of rooms. The early frames were usually of ivory, silver, ebony, or tortoiseshell or were veneered with marquetry of walnut, olive, and laburnum. Needlework and bead frames were also to be found. Craftsmen such as Grinling Gibbons (1648–1721) often produced elaborately carved mirror frames to match a complete decorative ensemble. The tradition soon became established of incorporating a mirror into the space over the mantelpiece: many of the early versions of these mirrors, usually known as overmantels, were enclosed in glass frames. The architectural structure of which these mirrors formed a part became progressively more elaborate; designers such as the English brothers Robert and James Adam created fireplace units stretching from the hearth to the ceiling and depending largely for their effect on mirrors. On the whole, mirror frames reflected the general taste of the time and were often changed to accommodate alterations in taste, frames usually being cheaper and hence more easily replaced than the mirror itself. By the end of the 18th century, painted decoration largely supplanted carving on mirrors, the frames being decorated with floral patterns or classical ornaments. At the same time, the French started producing circular mirrors, usually surrounded by a Neoclassical gilt frame that sometimes supported candlesticks, which enjoyed great popularity well into the 19th century. Improved skill in mirror making also made possible the introduction of the cheval glass, a freestanding full-length mirror, supported on a frame with four feet. These were mainly used for dressing purposes, though occasionally they had a decorative function. This is a nice size and detail. Located just 3 minutes south of Santa Barbara in an antique community, the store Lifestyle Antiques specializes in Italian , French and Spanish Furnishings and Decorative Arts. The elegant collection is located in the heart of Summerland, California, and offers the finest high-end European Antiques, Decorative Arts, and Home Furnishings on the South Coast. We feature a rich collection which varies from Murano lamps, decorative pillows, Chandeliers, Mirrors and a fine selection of antique home furnishings. For your convenience you may shop on line: www.lifestyleantiques.com .
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