Mirror - Brass - Pair of mirrors

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

Description of the lot:
An exceptional and rare pair of courtesy mirrors (or hanging mirrors) from the late 19th century (Napoleon III era / Third Republic, circa 1870–1890). Cast in heavy solid brass, they stand out for their superb openwork Baroque-inspired decoration. The central element of the composition is a magnificent relief-carved mascaron depicting the mythological figure of the God Neptune (or Poseidon), crowned with rays and foliage.

Details, Ornamentation and Assembly:
The openwork frame features exquisite chasing work with Baroque swirls, stylized floral motifs and rosettes of great finesse. The central mirrors adopt a curved architectural form on their upper part. The original glass panes have an elegant bevel along the edges, characteristic of fine mirror work from this period. On the back, original metal closure plates securely hold the glasses, as well as two rings for suspension cast directly in the metal for safe wall mounting.

Condition:
The pieces are presented strictly in their original state ("as is"), with their magnificent antique patina attesting to their authenticity. The brass has intentionally not been cleaned or polished to preserve this precious historical charm (darkened tone and contrasted finish, very light traces of natural green patina nestled in the reliefs). The beveled glasses show a few light oxidation pinpricks and discreet micro-scratches from normal use for their age. No loss or breakage on the openwork structure.
Weight: 1.620 kg per mirror.