Late 19Thc Bleached Maple & Parcel-Gilt Dressing Mirror C.1890

The very attractive and decorative late nineteenth century bleached maple and parcel-gilt toilet or dressing mirror, of good large useable size, the original rectangular plate within a reeded frame, on parcel-gilt uprights with brass acorn finials to arched bases on gilt ball feet and surviving from the zeniths of the nineteenth century.

The condition is true with the mirror frame and glass in original condition with no restoration, replacement, or repairs. The mirror swings freely and she can be pivoted to the desired angle. There are areas of slight wear and oxidisation to the mirror plate which is decorative but is largely clear for daily use.

The history of the toilet mirror began in the 17th century with free-standing "toilet glasses" designed for dressing tables, which were often made of polished metal or crystal. As glassmaking improved in the 18th century, so did these mirrors, which were then commonly called "dressing glasses" and featured more elaborate wooden frames. Later developments included oval shapes and large, free-standing "cheval mirrors," with "toilet" eventually evolving to mean the dressing table or a room for personal hygiene rather than the mirror itself

Not your typical finish for a toilet mirror and therefore this example works wonderfully well with the more contemporary interior.