Mirror - Wood

Wall mirror, carved and gilded wood, Napoleon III, circa 1880 – France

Spectacular French mirror in the Napoleon III style and era, carved and gilded wood with fine burnished gold and agate stone. Rectangular profile. At its center rises an exquisite crest or ornamented top, with pediments in the corners. The rest of the frame is also highly ornamented, especially by the ovary and dart moldings.

Ova (eggs) and darts or ova and arrows are names for an ornamental motif often carved in wood, stone, or plaster. The molding takes the form of an egg (oval) with the pointed end facing downward, alternating with an element in the shape of a dart, arrow, or anchor. Along with other classical decorative motifs, it has been common in classical architecture and the decorative arts since the Renaissance.

With this exquisite mirror you will add a refined and elegant style to any space and ambiance. These mirrors are highly sought in the art market for their refinement and timeless aesthetics. Suitable in any setting, in a composition with more mirrors or as a standalone piece, of great presence and elegance.

Style and period: Napoleon III or Second Empire

The Napoleon III style, or Second Empire, is named for its emergence in France at that time. Strictly, the Second Empire was proclaimed in 1852 and ended in 1870, led by Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French, though artistically it extended a few years more (until 1880). This style was well received among the French bourgeoisie. The emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the moment, though more linked to architecture. However, it is to Empress Eugénie that the evolution of the decorative arts is owed.

Although it draws inspiration from past styles, beginning with Classical Antiquity, the Renaissance, and even Louis XVI, beloved by Eugénie, the most representative characteristic of the style is sumptuousness and ostentation, always aiming to display wealth and opulence.

It is not a style designed specifically for the Second Empire, but a revival of the major French styles from previous centuries—a kind of compendium of French decorative trends. Special reference is made to Louis XIV, Louis XV, Baroque and Rococo, gradually including Louis XVI, with an eclectic base. Ultimately, the decorative styles that positioned France at the forefront of interior design and furniture design in Europe, in terms of quality as well as originality and beauty.

Style: Napoleon III
Materials: Carved and gilded wood, mirror
Period: Napoleon III era (1852 – 1880)
Country of origin: France
Good condition for its age and use
Overall dimensions: 131 x 85 x 5 cm.

Shipping of the product will be paid by the buyer according to the dimensions, weight, and destination. Shipping costs include professional, custom-made packaging; and personalized shipping, with tracking number and warranty. Due to the piece’s fragility and weight, depending on the destination, a custom-made wooden crate may be required. We will contact you to arrange this and agree on the budget.
The buyer will be responsible for paying import duties and taxes in the destination country, if any. Please note the seller’s disclaimer regarding possible customs charges, as they are collected in the destination country and the amount to be paid is determined by that country’s customs authorities.