Engelse Bolle Butler Spiegel (Convex) - Wall mirror- porthole - glass bowl, Oak - Wall-mounted mirror
05
days
08
hours
59
minutes
45
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Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
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Selected by Constance Rousseau
Master marquetry craftswoman with 4 years' expert experience. Trainee auctioneer at Sotheby's Paris.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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Antique English convex Butler mirror with a gilded wooden frame, 37 cm diameter, 3 cm depth, weighing 1.5 kg, in good condition with minor signs of aging and spots.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Beautiful Antique English Convex Butler Mirror - Wooden Gilded Frame - 19th Century
This is an authentic antique butler mirror, imported directly from England.
History and Use:
These convex mirrors, also known as 'Convex Mirrors' or colloquially 'Butler's Mirrors,' were particularly popular in England during the Regency and Victorian periods (19th century).
The name 'butler mirror' originated from the supposed function. The mirror was often placed in the dining room or hall, strategically facing the door or table. Thanks to the convex lens, the butler or housemaid could obtain a wide-angle view of the entire room without drawing attention. This allowed them to unobtrusively monitor whether guests at the table still needed anything or if glasses needed refilling.
Moreover, the mirror served, in an era before electric light, as a practical light amplifier. The convex shape captured the scarce candlelight and distributed it more effectively throughout the room, making the space seem larger and brighter.
Description of this specific item:
This piece features a rich, gilded wooden frame. The surround has a classic profile, adorned with a series of decorative, ball-shaped beads (also called 'ball studs') around the inner edge, which is characteristic of this type of mirror. The glass itself is convex and provides the typical distorted wide-angle reflection.
Condition:
The mirror is in good antique condition for its age. The wood shows the usual charming signs of age and light wear to the gilded finish (as seen in the detail photos). The glass is clear, with the slight imperfections and spots inherent to antique mirror glass. The back is fitted with an original old metal hanging chain.
Specifications:
Type: Antique convex Butler mirror / convex mirror
Origin: England
Material: Wood (gilded finish) and convex glass
Diameter: 37 cm
Thickness: 3 cm
Weight: 1500 grams
Special features: Equipped with a sturdy hanging chain on the back.
A piece of authentic English history that will add a stylish and atmospheric touch to any classic or eclectic interior.
Shipping: It is packed very carefully and shipped insured. We use bubble wrap, foam, and cardboard to ensure it arrives safely.
ps: The first photo and photo 5 were created with AI to set a mood.
Seller's Story
**Welcome to Gerard Dou and Extraordinary Sales House**
We are Verkoophuis Gerard Dou en Buitenueel, located in the heart of Amsterdam. As a family business, active since 1933, we are proud of our rich history and dedication to our customers.
Our global network enables us to find special and affordable objects, which we select with care. With our years of experience, we ensure that your purchases arrive to you safely and responsibly. We attach great importance to sustainability and use recycled packaging materials.
Your trust is of great importance to us and we strive to surprise and delight you with your purchases.
Kind regards from Amsterdam,
The team of Verkoophuis Gerard Dou and Buitenueel
Translated by Google TranslateBeautiful Antique English Convex Butler Mirror - Wooden Gilded Frame - 19th Century
This is an authentic antique butler mirror, imported directly from England.
History and Use:
These convex mirrors, also known as 'Convex Mirrors' or colloquially 'Butler's Mirrors,' were particularly popular in England during the Regency and Victorian periods (19th century).
The name 'butler mirror' originated from the supposed function. The mirror was often placed in the dining room or hall, strategically facing the door or table. Thanks to the convex lens, the butler or housemaid could obtain a wide-angle view of the entire room without drawing attention. This allowed them to unobtrusively monitor whether guests at the table still needed anything or if glasses needed refilling.
Moreover, the mirror served, in an era before electric light, as a practical light amplifier. The convex shape captured the scarce candlelight and distributed it more effectively throughout the room, making the space seem larger and brighter.
Description of this specific item:
This piece features a rich, gilded wooden frame. The surround has a classic profile, adorned with a series of decorative, ball-shaped beads (also called 'ball studs') around the inner edge, which is characteristic of this type of mirror. The glass itself is convex and provides the typical distorted wide-angle reflection.
Condition:
The mirror is in good antique condition for its age. The wood shows the usual charming signs of age and light wear to the gilded finish (as seen in the detail photos). The glass is clear, with the slight imperfections and spots inherent to antique mirror glass. The back is fitted with an original old metal hanging chain.
Specifications:
Type: Antique convex Butler mirror / convex mirror
Origin: England
Material: Wood (gilded finish) and convex glass
Diameter: 37 cm
Thickness: 3 cm
Weight: 1500 grams
Special features: Equipped with a sturdy hanging chain on the back.
A piece of authentic English history that will add a stylish and atmospheric touch to any classic or eclectic interior.
Shipping: It is packed very carefully and shipped insured. We use bubble wrap, foam, and cardboard to ensure it arrives safely.
ps: The first photo and photo 5 were created with AI to set a mood.
Seller's Story
**Welcome to Gerard Dou and Extraordinary Sales House**
We are Verkoophuis Gerard Dou en Buitenueel, located in the heart of Amsterdam. As a family business, active since 1933, we are proud of our rich history and dedication to our customers.
Our global network enables us to find special and affordable objects, which we select with care. With our years of experience, we ensure that your purchases arrive to you safely and responsibly. We attach great importance to sustainability and use recycled packaging materials.
Your trust is of great importance to us and we strive to surprise and delight you with your purchases.
Kind regards from Amsterdam,
The team of Verkoophuis Gerard Dou and Buitenueel
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Wood type
Oak
Glass type
glass bowl
Style subtype
Victorian Style
Weight
1500 g
Title additional information
Wall-mounted mirror
Number of objects
1
Manufacturer/brand
Engelse Bolle Butler Spiegel (Convex)
Country of origin
United Kingdom
Model
porthole
Material
Glass, Wood
Style
Antique
Colour
Gold
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
External height
37 cm
External width
37 cm
Internal height
30 cm
Internal width
30 cm
Depth
3 cm
Diameter
37 cm
Estimated period
1920-1930
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