Pair of 18th Century Venetian Murano Glass Mirrors

A Rare and Highly Significant Pair of 18th-Century Venetian Murano Girandole Mirrors

Venice, circa 1730–1750

This exceptional pair of Venetian Murano girandole mirrors represents some of the finest glassmaking produced in Venice during the early to mid-eighteenth century. Created around 1730–1750, they reflect both the technical mastery of Murano artisans and the imaginative spirit of the Rococo period.

The mirrors are designed in a cartouche-shaped form, a style widely popular throughout Europe during the Rococo era. However, what makes these examples uniquely Venetian is the combination of engraved and etched mirror plates with applied decorative elements in coloured glass. Produced in and around Murano—the historic centre and birthplace of European glassmaking—these mirrors showcase techniques for which the island became internationally renowned. For many years, Murano held a near monopoly on the production of high-quality mirror glass before competition emerged with the rise of lead-glass manufacturing in England.

These mirrors perfectly capture the playful and decorative character of Rococo design, with its fascination for movement, asymmetry, and the natural world. Their flowing outlines are enhanced by vibrant green glass foliage and individually applied flowers in a variety of colours and forms. The mirrored surfaces feature etched borders with scrolling foliate patterns surrounding central panels engraved with figures from the Commedia dell’Arte. These theatrical characters stand on ornamental strapwork pedestals beneath stylised canopies, designs likely influenced by decorative grotesques associated with artists such as Jean Bérain and seen in works like the Gobelins tapestries.

Only a small number of Murano mirrors with sculptural three-dimensional decoration from this early period survive today. During the late seventeenth century, Murano craftsmen first produced finely cut flat mirrors decorated with engraved glass, delicate rods, pearl-like edging, and floral ornament. During the 1730s, Murano glassmakers expanded their creativity and began producing more intricate mirror designs, drawing on techniques developed for decorative chandeliers and ornamental glass objects. Artisans began incorporating colourful three-dimensional elements into mirror design. This innovation led to the richly decorated polychrome mirrors that would remain highly sought after for centuries.

A closely related mirror is illustrated in Mirrors by Roche, Courage and Devinoy (1985), where similar examples featuring coloured flowers and green foliage are discussed. While single examples of mirrors of this type are already extremely rare, surviving pairs are exceptionally uncommon.

This pair therefore represents an important and rarely seen survival from the earliest and most inventive phase of Murano decorative mirror production.

Width: 28 3/4 inches - 72cm

Height: 51 inches - 130cm

Depth: 4 inches - 10cm

Loveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London.

Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.

As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association.

Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed.

All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for.

We deliver within the UK for usually between £60-£80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

GOODS

All items listed are in excellent condition having been restored using traditional methods by experienced cabinet makers and polishers keeping the original colour and patina wherever possible.

Please bear in mind you may find the usual markings with antique furniture that are commensurate with age which all add to beauty and uniqueness of the item.

VIEWINGS

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