Victorian Gilt Overmantel Mirror 19th Century

Name: Victorian Gilt Large Arch Top Overmantle Mirror
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1215205
Price: 2200 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectOvermantel Mirrors
Period19th century
StyleVictorian
MaterialGiltwood, Gesso, Glass
ColourGold
MotifsArched top, Beaded moulding, Scrolled base corner brackets
SizeH 101.5 cm (40 in) x W 156 cm (61 in) x D 7.5 cm (3 in)

This Victorian overmantle mirror dates to 1870 and displays a large arched top design. The piece has a wooden panelled back, a glass mirror plate, and a giltwood and gesso frame finished in gold. Details include a beaded moulding along the border and decorative scrolled corner brackets at the base of the frame. It stands 101.5 cm high, 156 cm wide at the base, and 7.5 cm deep. In a contemporary home, this mirror is intended for placement above the mantel in a principal reception room or living space. It rests securely upon a flat surface such as a fireplace mantelpiece to reflect light and expand the visual proportions of the interior. The scale accommodates substantial mantel widths while the classical gold finish coordinates with traditional interior hardware and fireplace surrounds.

FAQs

Designed during the nineteenth century, overmantel mirrors were constructed to sit directly above fireplace hearths. They served both functional and decorative purposes by reflecting candlelight and firelight to brighten grand reception rooms.

Frames from this period were typically built from carved timber covered in plaster or gesso moulding. Gold leaf was then applied using water gilding or oil gilding techniques over red or yellow clay bole base coats.

Authentic period examples often feature solid wood backboards with hand-cut panel joinery, natural oxidisation on the original glass plate, and minor cracking or red bole showing through areas of worn gilding.

Position the mirror above a contemporary or original fireplace surround to create a focal point. It can also be placed above a hallway console table or sideboard to enhance room proportions and maximize light.

Dust the ornate plaster moulding gently using a dry, soft-bristled brush. Avoid liquid cleaners, water, or abrasive polishes on the gilded surface, as moisture can dissolve the underlying gesso foundation.

Lorna Byskou

Victorian Gilt Large Arch Top Overmantle Mirror