Mirror - Brass - Pair of mirrors

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

Description of the lot:
Exceptional and rare pair of courtesy mirrors (or hanging mirrors) from the late 19th century (Napoleon III / Third Republic period, around 1870-1890). Made in heavy solid brass cast in a foundry, they are distinguished by their superb openwork Baroque-inspired decoration. 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 openwork frame features excellent chasing work with Baroque scrolls, stylized floral motifs, and finely crafted rosettes.
The central mirrors adopt a curved architectural shape at their upper part. The original glass panes have an elegant bevelled edge around the perimeter, characteristic of fine mirror-making of this period.
The back reveals original metal closing plates that securely hold the panes, as well as two rings cast directly in the mass for secure wall mounting.

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