"Large Baroque Mirror With Cherubs "
An imposing 19th-century mirror, presented in an exceptional carved natural wood frame. The whole unfolds like a veritable theatrical set: wide, knotted draperies, skillfully crafted in deep, flowing folds, frame the glass and create a sweeping, dynamic movement. Three putti in the round—one at the top, two on either side—appear to emerge from the folds of the fabric, lending the piece a dimension that is both Baroque and narrative. The highly expressive carving combines power and finesse: delicately modeled faces, flowing drapery, and generous volumes. The mirror rests on a wide, ogee-shaped frame, whose majestic proportions enhance its dramatic character. Through its style and virtuosity, this frame clearly belongs to the Neo-Baroque and Romantic tradition of the late 19th century. The theatrical drapery, animated cherubs, and abundant decoration evoke the narrative and exuberant aesthetic found in certain sculpted or illustrated works of the same period. A possible attribution to Gustave Doré... The quality of execution, the vigor of the modeling, and the fantastical imagery emanating from the composition suggest a possible attribution to Gustave Doré (1832–1883). Known primarily as an illustrator and engraver, Doré was also a sculptor and produced several three-dimensional works featuring spectacular draperies, dynamic childlike figures, and a marked sense of dramatic movement. Without formal documentation, the attribution remains tentative, but the stylistic characteristics—the delicacy of the putti, the theatricality of the folds, and the highly narrative construction—are consistent with Doré's style and hand. Height 180 cm / Length 120 cm