Chimney Glass

Date1730-1750

MediumWalnut veneer and gilt over deal; glass

DimensionsOH: 18 1/8"; OW: 55"; OD (without arms): 1 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1967-411

DescriptionChimney glass; straight across top and bottom; one console at each side with outer element of a carved scroll and pendant flowers and leaves; line of console curves inward forming the oval base for the backplate; inside of outer frame embellished with carved and gilded egg-and-dart motif; central area of frame covered with walnut veneer; inner border of frame carved with curves and leaves, the background covered with all-over punch work and the whole gilded; 3-part old but re-silvered glass; one backplate centered in each console; outer border of backplate consists of a ruffled edge with a centered flower at top and bottom; central diaper design framed by a flat, undercorated band; candle arms of 2 conjoined "C" scrolls supporting an inverted bell-shape a circular drip pan and a socket bulbous at base, cylindrical at center, and with quarter round molding at top.
Label TextA chimney glass, as the name describes, was designed to fit on or above the mantel over a fireplace. The main function of looking and chimney glasses was to reflect light: either daylight from windows or light from candles. Many looking glasses were outfitted with small brass sconces that would hold candles directly in front of the mirrored glass, thus providing both the source of the light and its reflection in one object.