A fine 19th century French Louis XVI style mirror retaining its original gold leaf, with beautifully balanced Neoclassical lines and finely carved decoration. The rectangular giltwood frame is bordered with classical beading and foliate ornament, rising to an elaborate crest centered by a pair of lovebirds among flowers and foliage, with the quiver of arrows and flaming torch symbolizing love and devotion.
Louis XVI design emerged in late 18th century France with the renewed fascination for classical antiquity inspired by archaeological discoveries at Pompeii and Herculaneum. The curves and exuberance of the preceding Rococo period gave way to symmetry, classical proportions and motifs drawn from ancient Greece and Rome. During the 19th century, these Neoclassical forms enjoyed an important revival in French decorative arts, and mirrors such as this continued the Louis XVI tradition with finely carved giltwood frames and allegorical ornament.
Especially appealing is the exceptional condition of the original gilding. The gold leaf retains a warm glow and gorgeous patina, settling naturally into the carved details and giving the ornament wonderful depth. Gold leaf and mirror glass work particularly well together, catching and reflecting light and giving antique mirrors a depth and presence that has made them an enduring element of French interiors for centuries.
Circa 1880s
Measures 67.5H x 44.5W x 6.5D
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This antique French mirror is available at Inessa Stewart’s Antiques, Dallas Design District, Dallas, Texas.