Looking glass

Dateca. 1670

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.