Mirror - Brass - Pair of mirrors

Pair of Solid Cast Brass Courtesy Mirrors – Antique / Baroque Style with Neptune Mascaron – Late 19th Century

Description of the lot :
Exceptionally rare pair of courtesy mirrors (or hanging mirrors) dating from the late 19th century (Napoleon III / Third Republic era, circa 1870–1890). Designed in heavy solid brass cast in a foundry, they are distinguished by their superb pierced decoration in Baroque inspiration. The central element of the composition is a magnificent high-relief mascaron depicting the mythological figure of the God Neptune (or Poseidon), crowned with rays and foliage.

Details, Ornamentation and Assembly :
The pierced frame presents fine chiselled work with Baroque scrolls, stylized floral motifs and rosettes of great finesse.
The central mirrors adopt an arched upper shape. The original glasses feature an elegant bevel on the peripheral edge, characteristic of fine looking-glass from this period.
The back reveals original metal closure plates securely holding the glasses, as well as two suspension rings cast directly in the mass for secure wall mounting.

Condition :
The pieces are presented strictly in their original state ("as found"), with their magnificent antique patina attesting to their authenticity. The brass has deliberately not been cleaned or polished to preserve this precious historic charm (dark, contrasted tone, very light traces of natural verdigris nestled in the reliefs). The bevelled mirrors show a few light oxidation pinpricks and discreet micro-scratches from normal use for their age. No missing parts or cracks on the pierced framework.
Weight: 1.620 kg per mirror.