Looking glass
Dateca. 1670
OriginEngland
MediumDeal, glass, gilt, silver and gesso
DimensionsOH: 41 1/8"; OW: 33"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1962-1
DescriptionIn two parts: crest carved and scrolled with central motif of pair of three-quarter length cupids on either side of a cartouche-like device; cupids are holding up a carved floral wreath; each cupid flanked by a single flower with a pendant swag below acanthus scrolls; crest secured to frame by a pair of tapered projections nailed to middle of back; rectangular mirror frame; inner frame composed of four half round sections, each carved with a series of overlapping leaves; central frame, half circular in section; two acanthus leaves meeting at each mortised corner, and openwork design of flowers and bars with the following motifs centered at each side; center top-pair of three-quarter length putti flying toward center and supporting a garland of fruit; left and right sides-one full-length winged putti turned outward at each side, holding aloft flowers or fruit with pendant swag trailing; center bottom-spread eagle facing left; outer element of frame at left and right sides and bottom consists of fruit and leaves; all wood surfaces gessoed and gilded except for large central motifs at each side, top and bottom which are silvered; back of frame constructed of four pieces of board nailed and rabbeted at right angles; original back board secured with many of original brads; old, and probably original ring and half hinge hanger at center of top on back side; one fitting for securing crest on each side of hanger.MarkingsNone found
ProvenanceLooking glass was found by previous owner in Bletchingley, Surrey, during the 1920's. It had previously hung in the Clayton Arms Inn in Podstone, Surrey, but its history before that time is not known. When found it was covered with brown paint.
ca. 1765
ca. 1700
Ca. 1818
ca. 1740
ca. 1740
1760-1780
1815-1820
ca. 1775
ca. 1765 case; ca. 1740 movement
1805-1810
1700-1730
1766-1777