Antique Gilt Wall Mirror 19th Century

Name: Antique 19th Century Large Quality Gilt Wall Mirror
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA906449
Price: 906 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectWall Mirrors
Period19th century
StyleFrench Chateau
MaterialGiltwood, Gesso, Glass
ColourGold
MotifsCherub crest, Central urn motif, Floral moulding, Eared corners

This large 19th-century French Chateau style wall mirror comes in a rectangular shape with eared corners, finished in gold over giltwood, gesso and glass. The ornate crest features a central urn motif flanked by seated cherubs, sitting above continuous floral moulding along the frame. Signs of age include historic knocks, marks, wear, scratches, imperfections, repairs, losses, sympathetic touch-ups and treated extinct woodworm holes, alongside light to medium oxidation on the original mirrored glass. Measuring 126 cm in height, 76 cm in width and 8 cm in depth, it serves as an overmantle mirror. It hangs above the mantel in a living room, dining room or hallway.

FAQs

19th-century French gilt mirrors are defined by wood or moulded gesso frames finished with thin layers of gold leaf. They frequently feature classical decorative motifs such as cherubs, urns, floral garlands, and scrolled crestings associated with Neoclassical and Louis XVI revival styles.

These mirrors were constructed using timber frames layered with gesso, a mixture of chalk and binder, which was carved or moulded before water gilding or oil gilding was applied. The glass plates were typically mercury-backed, resulting in subtle surface variations and minor oxidisation over time.

Authentic period pieces feature hand-carved timber backings, visible red or grey clay bole under worn gilding, and slight foxing to the mirror plate. Modern reproductions often display synthetic resin construction, uniform artificial distressing, and flawless float glass.

An antique gilt mirror functions as a focal point when placed above a fireplace mantel, console table, or sideboard, contrasting ornate detailing against neutral walls. Positioning the mirror opposite a light source maximizes light reflection and enhances visual depth.

Dust the frame using a soft, dry camel-hair brush to prevent lifting delicate gold leaf, avoiding liquid cleaners or damp cloths on the gilded finish. The glass plate should be cleaned using a damp microfibre cloth, ensuring moisture does not contact the frame edge.

Prior and Willis

Antique 19th Century Large Quality Gilt Wall Mirror