Images(3)

Miniature Looking Glass

Date1753-1761

Labeled by John Elliott

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia or England

MediumMahogany, pine, and glass

DimensionsOH: 15 3/4"; OW: 8 1/2”; OD: 1”

Credit LineBequest of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Hennage

Object number2020-165

DescriptionSmall rectangular looking glass with molded rectangular frame and scrolled upper crest.
Label TextBeginning in 1756, John Elliott advertised in the PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE that he sold and repaired looking glasses at his shop in Philadelphia. Elliott, an English cabinetmaker who migrated to the colonies in 1753, labeled many of the products he sold, both items he made and ones he imported and retailed, including likely this example.

Prior to the American Revolution, relatively few looking glasses were made in the colonies, primarily because American glass manufactories were slow to develop. Most finished mirrors used in this country were, consequently, imported from Europe, though in some cases American cabinetmakers bought and framed the unfinished glass plates. Wood analysis may reveal whether this is an American or English manufactured looking glass frame.
InscribedCarved Inscription: "1753-61/FIRST TYPE LABEL AMERICAN PINE BACK" "SEE "ANTIQUES" JUNE 1964/ Also Oct. 67,”;Written Inscription: "KEENE COL. JK"; Label for John Elliot on the back in English and German. "John Elliott/ At his Looking-Glass Store, the Sign of the Bell and/ Looking-Glass, in Chestnut-Street Philadelphia/ Imports and sells all Sorts of English Looking-Glasses/ at the lowest Rates. [wholesale & retail]/ He also new Quicksilvers and frames old Glasses/ and supply's People with new Glass to their own Frame./ Dschan Elliott..."
ProvenanceDonor purchased from Philip H. Bradley Co. in 1992