Gilt Pier Glass or Overmantle Mirror C.1890 19th Century

Name: Gilt Pier Glass or Overmantle Mirror C.1890
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1241419
Price: 995 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectMirrors
Period19th century
StyleRococo Revival
MaterialGiltwood, Gesso, Glass
ColourGold
MotifsAcanthus leaf cresting, Rocaille ornamentation, Beaded inner moulding, Arched top frame
SizeH 162.5 cm (64 in) x W 99 cm (39 in) x D 18 cm (7 in)

This late Victorian giltwood overmantle mirror or pier glass dates from 1890 and exemplifies the Rococo Revival style with its French Chateau aesthetic. The rectangular glass plate features an arched top, set within a moulded wooden frame finished in gold leaf with a beaded inner moulding and rocaille ornamentation. The upper section carries a pierced frieze and cresting decorated with carved scrolling acanthus leaves, while the reflective surface and gilding show visible age through light wear and small retouched areas. Measuring 162.5 cm high, 99 cm wide, and 18 cm deep, this large wall hanging functions effectively when placed above a mantelpiece in a living room, dining room, or hallway to add reflection and decorative architectural detail to an interior space.

FAQs

Originating in the 17th and 18th centuries, pier glasses were designed to hang on the wall space between windows, while overmantel mirrors were sized specifically to sit above a fireplace hearth. Both types served to amplify natural light and enhance the sense of spatial depth in formal reception rooms.

Late Victorian gilt mirrors typically feature a carved wooden substrate layered with gesso, a smooth plaster mixture. Intricate ornamental details were moulded onto the frame before applying bole and gold leaf gilding, housing a mercury or silvered glass plate.

Authentic Rococo Revival pieces from circa 1890 display scrolling acanthus leaves, rocaille motifs, and asymmetrical shell flourishes combined with Victorian manufacturing hallmarks. The reverse side often shows darkened wood backing panels, square head nails, and age-related oxidisation on the mirror glass.

An antique gilt mirror can be placed above a contemporary fireplace mantel or a minimalist sideboard to create visual contrast. The warmth of the gilded finish pairs well with neutral paint palettes, dark panelling, or modern structured furniture.

Giltwood frames should be dusted gently using a soft, dry camel-hair brush to avoid flaking delicate gold leaf. Chemical glass cleaners must never be sprayed directly onto the mirror, as liquid seep can dissolve the surrounding gesso and damage the backing.

Collinge Antiques

Gilt Pier Glass or Overmantle Mirror C.1890