Rococo Mirror, Circa 1870

Carved and gilded wood mirror from the Napoleon III period, featuring a flowing, contoured outline and a richly ornamented decoration inspired by the rocaille vocabulary of the 18th century. The frame adopts a sinuous silhouette reminiscent of a stylised shell, with soft, asymmetrical curves characteristic of the Neo-Rococo taste that flourished during the Second Empire.

The ensemble is animated by abundant decoration: at the top, an openwork crest composed of scrolls, acanthus leaves and shells forms a theatrical composition typical of Napoleon III ornamentation. The side uprights display volutes, floral scrolls, flower garlands and finely carved foliage. The lower section is completed by a richly worked cartouche combining shell motifs, acanthus leaves and C-scrolls, reinforcing the vertical balance of the piece.

The original gilding, warm and deep in tone, enhances the sharply defined relief and reflects the craftsmanship of Parisian workshops of the third quarter of the 19th century. The mirror retains its original bevelled glass, which adds elegance and attests to the high quality of the piece.

This type of mirror, emblematic of the Napoleon III style, draws directly from the Louis XV repertoire, reinterpreted with a sense of dramatic ornamentation and virtuoso execution. It fits beautifully into both a classical interior and a contemporary setting seeking a decorative statement piece.



Dimensions :
Height 112 cm
Width 66 cm