French 19th Century Gold Gilt Mantle Mirror

Dimensions: 56 1/4″H x 41 1/2″W x 2 3/4″D

A brilliant 19th century gold gilt mantle mirror, made in France circa 1870. The mirror is large and beautiful. The frame is ornamented with bundles of flowers that can be found in its corners and sides. The gilt finish has experienced some loss due to time and hundreds of feather dustings, exposing some of the red bole substratum. Often referred to as “French Red” this facet of gilt mirrors is sought after. The frame is trimmed in a twisted cording motif. The mirror has its original mercury glass, which has some foxing and sparkles galore. The “diamond dust” has become separated from the backing and fallen into the glass. Gravity has situated much of the sparkles along the mirror’s bottom.