Object Description
Pair of English gilt bronze and ebonised wood mirrors
English, c. 1860
Height 74cm, width 59cm, depth 7cm
Magnificently crafted in around 1860 by English craftsmen, this pair of mirrors is decorated with several motifs, some inspired by French royalty.
Inspired by the Renaissance style, the mirrors are of a rectangular shape mostly adorned with ormolu decoration. A pair of putti and lions flank a central coat of arms, while below is a monogram ‘HHIV’, most likely signifying Henri IV who was the King of France from 1589 to 1610. The monogram is flanked by rich floral garlands. Numerous espagnolette mounts frame the later bevelled mirror plates. Ormolu niches with various male and female figures add another grand feature to this elegant pair of mirrors.
An ebonised wood backing creates a stunning background on which the exceptional ormolu features shine.
This pair of mirrors comes from Harlaxton Manor in Lincolnshire. Despite not being recorded in the 1864 inventory of the Manor, their design bears similarities to the decoration in the State Dining Room and corridors on the upper floor.
Of a sophisticated design, inspired by the rich history of art, this pair of mirrors is guaranteed to add a touch of elegance and regality to the appropriate interior space.