French Parcel Gilt Mirror 19th Century

Name: Large 19th C French Carved Parcel Gilt Mirror
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1228663
Price: 3500 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectWall Mirrors
Period19th century
StyleFrench Rococo Revival
MaterialWood, Gold Leaf, Glass
ColourGold
MotifsAcanthus leaf scrolls, shell motif, openwork carving
SizeH 146 cm (57 in) x W 130 cm (51 in) x D 3.5 cm (1 in)

This large nineteenth-century French wall mirror exemplifies the Rococo Revival style through an intricate wooden frame with elaborate openwork carving. The surface displays a rich parcel gilt finish in gold, complemented by deeply carved acanthus leaf scrolls, prominent shell motifs at the crest, base, and sides, and a rectangular glass plate. Measuring 146 cm high, 130 cm wide, and 3.5 cm deep, the substantial proportions provide a striking decorative focal point. In a modern interior, this piece suits placement above a mantelpiece in a living room, or as an accent above a grand console table in an entrance hall. The versatile design allows for hanging in either portrait or landscape orientation, adapting easily to various architectural spaces within a home.

FAQs

French parcel gilt mirrors from the 19th century often feature ornate carved timber or composition frames finished with gold leaf gilding over a clay base called bole. Design elements frequently draw inspiration from Rococo and Louis XV styles, incorporating acanthus leaves, C-scrolls, and shell motifs.

Traditional frames were constructed from carved hardwoods such as pine or lime, coated with gesso, and layered with red or yellow bole before water gilding with thin gold leaf. The reflective panel typically comprised mercury-silvered glass or early silvered float glass.

Authentic period pieces display natural wear to the gilding where the underlying reddish bole or white gesso shows through, particularly on raised points. The reverse of the frame typically features hand-sawn wooden backing boards and original metal fixing hardware.

A large gilded mirror functions effectively as a focal point above a fireplace mantelpiece or high-end sideboard. Placing ornate historical mirrors against modern minimalist backdrops creates a striking visual juxtaposition while reflecting light across the room.

Dust the carved gilding regularly using a dry, soft-bristle brush, avoiding any water, chemical cleaners, or damp cloths which can dissolve water gilding. Glass cleaner should be sprayed onto a microfibre cloth rather than directly onto the mirror panel to prevent liquid seeping behind the frame.

Youlls Antiques

Large 19th C French Carved Parcel Gilt Mirror