Exclusieve 19e-eeuwse handgesneden notenhouten tafelspiegel met Putti - Mirror - Burr walnut

Exclusive 19th-Century Hand-Carved Walnut Table Mirror with Winged Putti (ca. 1870–1890)
Offered for auction: an exceptionally refined masterpiece of 19th-century woodcarving. This antique table mirror (or psyche mirror) is entirely hand-carved from high-quality solid walnut. The piece reflects the lavish taste of Historicism (Neo-Baroque/Neo-Rococo) at the fin de siècle, a period in which craftsmanship and romantic symbolism took center stage.
Carving & Symbolism
The mirror is magnificently crowned at the top with a deeply carved high relief depicting two winged putti (cherubs) leaning toward one another. The detail is of an exceptionally high standard: the individual curls of their hair, their facial expressions, and the layered structure of the flight feathers on their wings all attest to the hand of a master carver. The oval mirror frame is organically surrounded by flowing acanthus leaves and stylized floral motifs, resting on two elegantly curled rocaille feet.
Mirror Glass & Construction
The thick oval crystal-glass mirror plate features a broad, hand-ground beveled edge. This bevel refracts the light in a beautiful, soft manner typical of antique glass from this period. The back reveals the piece’s authentic construction, with original wooden panels and sturdy 19th-century iron hinges fitted with early slotted screws.
Provenance & Value
A notable feature of this example is the presence of the original inventory sticker from the respected and historically renowned art and antique dealer ‘De Bruijn Antiek’ of Hilvarenbeek (founded by the well-known dealer Ad de Bruijn). The sticker bears the handwritten inventory number Lu18 and the original historical sale price of ƒ 1115 (Dutch guilders). This proves that the piece was already being traded decades ago as a valuable and highly collectible work of exceptional quality.
Condition & Patina
The mirror is in remarkably good, original condition. Over the years, the woodwork has developed a beautiful, deep satin sheen and a warm wax patina. There are no major restorations or distracting damage to the delicate carving. The mirror glass is clear, with minimal, characteristic signs of age that accentuate its authenticity and age of approximately 140 years.
A rare and exceptionally decorative collectible that will look wonderful on a dressing table, chest of drawers, or indoors.
Excellent condition - Given its age and the fragile nature of the carving, it is in exceptionally well-preserved condition. Minimal superficial signs of age, consistent with its age. The glass is clear and scratch-free.

Careful & Professional Packaging
Due to the fragile hand-carved woodwork and antique mirror plate, this item will be packed with the utmost care. The lot will be wrapped in two layers of thick bubble wrap and shipped in a sturdy, shock-absorbing double-walled box with soft padding. We ship only by registered mail and with full insurance to guarantee safe international delivery.