.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
Typical of 18th century Venetian design, this spectacular mirror combines grand size and theatricality with delicate -- and even lighthearted -- engraved decoration. The carved and gilded wood, brilliant blue and engraved glass all recall the glass production and engraving in early 18th century Venice. For another, similar, example, see a mirror offered by Didier Aaron and illustrated in his Catalogue VII, 2004, no. 29.
The engraving on the present mirror is especially sophisticated and complex. The figures of Ceres and Bacchus of the upper section could represent Summer and Fall and they might have originally been paired with another mirror with figures emblematic of Winter and Spring. Interestingly, the mirrored cartouche beneath the carved coronet could have possibly previously held an engraved coat-of-arms, now lost.
The engraving on the present mirror is especially sophisticated and complex. The figures of Ceres and Bacchus of the upper section could represent Summer and Fall and they might have originally been paired with another mirror with figures emblematic of Winter and Spring. Interestingly, the mirrored cartouche beneath the carved coronet could have possibly previously held an engraved coat-of-arms, now lost.