Looking Glass

Date1725-1740

MediumDeal, glass, brass, gesso, and gilt

DimensionsOH: 51 3/4"; OW (top cornice): 24 3/4"; OD (top cornice): 1 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1970-131,A

DescriptionLooking Glass. Essentially rectangular, architectural frame with broken scrolled pediment; cornice of pediment carved with foliage and strap motifs; ends of pediment formed of single flower with dependent leafage; tympanum of pediment carved with raised strap work and foliage on punch work ground; large, shield-shaped cartouche at center of pediment resting on gadrooned base and topped by three feathers motif; central area of cartouche carved with foliage; frame of glass is essentially rectangular with square, projecting corners; gadrooned inner border, a flat middle area decorated with carved strap work and foliage on a punched ground, with raised scallop shell in each corner; outer border of raised, stylized leafage; dependent band of foliage with S-bracket at top, down each side of frame; broad base carved with foliage on punch work ground; with large central shell-on-shell with dependent leafage; scrolled lower border with openwork foliage at center and dependent leafy shell at either side; scalloped, cone-shaped back plate attached to base at either side with cylindrical socket which holds twisted, brass candle arm terminating in cylindrical socket above circular, molded drip pan supported by eagle head termination of arm; original beveled glass and what appears to be original backboard.

Materials: Deal frame and backboard; glass mirror; brass candle arms and backplates.
Inscribed"Once the Property of Parson Thomas Smith" in pencil on 19th century paper backing on back of frame.
ProvenanceLooking glass descended, along with chairs (1930-130 and G1930-132) in Dane family of Andover, Massachusetts. This glass also supposed to have once been owned by Rev. Thomas Smith (1702-95) of Falmouth (Portland), Maine.