Gilded Venetian erre églomisé mirror w/ shelf 44½" x 20"

This extraordinary Venetian mirror dates from the early-eighteenth century. Crowned with a romantic scene (verre églomisé) of a couple picnicing and playing music, it has been made in one piece. Note the carved and gilded wooden frame (not plaster) that includes shell motifs, scrolling acanthus and flowers. There are also two 'feet' brackets underneath the main shelve. There has been a minor repair on the right side of the shelf skirt. Verre églomisé is an artistic technique involving the application of metal leaf, usually gold or silver, to the reverse side of glass panels. Named after the 18th-century French art dealer Jean-Baptiste Glomy, the method dates back to ancient times and was popularized for its decorative potential. In this technique, the glass surface is first cleaned thoroughly. Designs, often intricate and detailed, are then applied to the back of the glass. Following the design application, metal leaf is adhered to the design areas, enhancing the visual richness. Colors may also be added by painting the back of the glass, further elaborating the design. The final step involves sealing the artwork with a protective backing to preserve both the metallic leaf and the painted details. Venetian mirrors, renowned for their craftsmanship, often featured Verre églomisé decorations. These embellishments were typically applied around the mirror's edges or on the frames, incorporating silver leaf to complement the reflective surface. Such mirrors were more than functional items; they were opulent decorations that showcased the artistic elegance of the time, particularly in affluent settings.

Note: Mirrors have been photographed facing fabric, a technique that reveals any age spots in the glass. In some cases, this may create the appearance of an empty frame, but each mirror is complete except where explicitly stated.