Victorian Gilt and Ebonised Large Arch Top Overmantle Mirror

Name: Victorian Gilt and Ebonised Large Arch Top Overmantle Mirror
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1242357
Price: 1150 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectMirrors
Period19th century
StyleVictorian
MaterialGiltwood, Gesso, Glass, Ebonised Wood
ColourGold and Black
MotifsArched top, Ebonised moulding, Acanthus scroll feet, Giltwood frame
SizeH 92 cm (36 in) x W 140 cm (55 in) x D 120 cm (47 in)

This Victorian overmantle mirror dates to 1880 and follows a classic English Country House style. The piece uses giltwood, gesso, glass, and ebonised wood materials finished in gold and black colours. A prominent arched top sits above a rectangular base, bordered by a gilded outer frame and an ebonised inner moulding. Carved acanthus scrolls decorate the lower left and right corners where the frame meets the straight base. The mirror plate shows extensive surface deterioration while remaining usable, and two small hanging loops project from the top edge of the frame. The mirror measures 92 cm high by 140 cm wide at the base. In a modern interior, this large overmantle mirror hangs or rests above the mantel in a living room, drawing room, or dining space. The traditional design complements period fireplaces and fireplace surrounds, creating a focal point above a hearth. Alternatively, the architectural shape works well mounted on a principal wall in a hallway or bedroom to reflect natural light across the room.

FAQs

Designed during the 19th century, overmantel mirrors were specifically created to sit directly above fireplace mantels. Their primary function was to reflect daylight and candlelight across grand reception rooms, enhancing the brightness and visual proportions of Victorian living spaces.

Victorian frames were commonly constructed from carved pine or lime wood, coated with gesso, and finished using water or oil gilding techniques. Accent lines were frequently painted or ebonised, and the mirror plates were crafted using silvered plate glass.

Authentic pieces usually exhibit dark oxidisation or light foxing to the original mirror glass, hand-cut wooden backing boards, and genuine wear to the gilding where the bole layer shows through. Joints on the back panel will typically show traditional joinery methods rather than modern fasteners.

Place the mirror centrally above a living room mantelpiece or a contemporary dining room sideboard to create a focal point. Combining the gilded historical frame with clean, modern furniture provides an effective contrast in eclectic or traditional spaces.

Dust the frame gently using a soft, dry feather duster or dry microfibre cloth to avoid lifting delicate gold leaf. Never apply water, liquid chemical cleaners, or spray polish directly onto giltwood or gesso surface treatments.

Lorna Byskou

Victorian Gilt and Ebonised Large Arch Top Overmantle Mirror

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