Mid-19th Century Small Louis-Philippe Mirror in Silver Leaf - 24¾" x 19¾"

This elegant petite Louis-Philippe mirror, France, mid-19th century, features a rectangular frame with rounded upper corners and a deep, stepped cushion molding that reads as a series of soft concentric bands. The wood and gesso frame has been beautifully resilvered using traditional silver-leaf techniques, which restore its cool, luminous tone while allowing subtle warm undertones and gentle rubbing on the high points to enrich the surface. The mirror plate shows delicate scattered specks and faint marks that lend atmosphere.

During the reign of Louis-Philippe, design shifted toward restrained profiles and practical elegance, favoring simplified rounded-corner silhouettes with tiered moldings or subtle engravings over Rococo exuberance. Silvered finishes provided a refined alternative to gilt, their hand-applied leaf over gesso catching candlelight, while period plates developed foxing now valued for its soft, atmospheric character.

This petite format works effortlessly above a mantel or console, in an entry, or as a chic powder room mirror paired with marble and nickel fittings. Its silver leaf complements pale plaster, patinated wood, or contemporary art, adding a quiet shimmer and bringing depth and light to any setting.