Exceptional Louis XIV Burr Walnut Cushion-Frame Mirror w/ Original Glass - 41" x 36¼"

A handsome French cushion-frame mirror dating from the 17th century, crafted in richly figured burr walnut with ebonized moldings that accentuate its bold architectural profile. The deeply stepped frame displays beautifully varied figuring in warm chestnut and chocolate tones. Particularly noteworthy is its original beveled mercury glass, a rare survival that greatly enhances the mirror's appeal. The mercury silvering remains unusually clear for its age, displaying only light oxidation and the luminous, crystalline shimmer unique to early mirrors. The walnut frame bears the honest marks of more than three centuries, with small nicks, age-related shrinkage splits, and the natural movement of the timber. These have mellowed into a deep, richly developed patina with a beautiful gloss, giving the mirror exceptional warmth and character.

With its generous proportions and bold cushion-molded frame, this mirror brings presence and character to any room. Remarkably clear for its age, the original mercury plate makes it as practical as it is beautiful, allowing it to be enjoyed even as a bathroom mirror. The richly figured burr walnut and simple yet commanding design give the mirror exceptional presence without overpowering a room. It feels equally at home in traditional or layered interiors as it does as a striking counterpoint in a pared-back contemporary setting.