Object Description
19th century Empire style ormolu table mirror
French, 19th Century
Height 56cm, width 37cm, depth 4cm, depth when open 46cm
This fine table mirror is cast entirely in ormolu in the Empire style, which became popular in the early 19th century.
The mirror is of layered arch form, featuring a larger outer arch and a smaller inner arch. There is a large, mirrored panel set within the inner arch and smaller mirrored panels between the two arches. The top of the outer arch is surmounted by a cornice of foliate forms, which surround an oval plaque with a crown. The outer arch is further set within a rectangular, architectural frame with fluted pilasters to either side. The inner arch is joined to the outer arch in several sections by scrolling foliate forms and two oval plaques to either of the upper sides. The inner arch features caryatids and draping to either side.
To the base of the mirror, both arches are conjoined, and the centre is decorated with a rectangular plaque. The entire mirror is supported on an elongated pierced foot with winged, hybrid female figures, and features a supporting stand to the reverse.
Its shining ormolu frame and refined design make this mirror a very elegant home décor piece.