Mirror - Brass - Pair of mirrors

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

Description of the lot:
An exceptional and rare pair of courtesy mirrors (or wall-mounted mirrors) dating from the late 19th century (Napoleon III / Third Republic period, circa 1870-1890). Made from heavy solid brass cast in a foundry, they stand out for 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 pierced frame features exquisite chasing work with Baroque volutes, stylized floral motifs and rosettes of great refinement.
The central mirrors adopt a bowed architectural shape at the top. The original glass panes feature an elegant beveled edge, characteristic of fine glassmaking of the period.
The back reveals original metal closure plates firmly 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 condition ("as is"), with their magnificent antique patina attesting to their authenticity. The brass has intentionally not been cleaned or polished to preserve this precious historic charm (dark, contrasted coloration, very light traces of natural verdigris nestled in the reliefs). The beveled glasses show a few light oxidation pinpricks and discreet micro-scratches from normal use for their age. No damage or cracks to the pierced frame.

Weight: 1.620 kg per mirror.