Neoclassical Gilt Oval Mirror

Dimensions- Width 62 cm, Height 129 cm

Style- Neoclassical, with strong influences from the Louis XVI style.

Circa- Late 18th Century 

Material- Primarily carved wood with gesso and gilded ormolu 

Background- 

The Neoclassical style emerged as a reaction against the perceived excesses and frivolity of the Rococo. It drew inspiration from the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing order, reason, and classical ideals.

Large, elaborately framed mirrors were highly prized possessions in the 18th century. They served not only a functional purpose but also as important decorative elements that reflected light and enhanced the grandeur of interiors. Their size and the use of expensive materials like gilding indicated the wealth and taste of the owner.

The creation of such a mirror involved highly skilled artisans, including woodcarvers and gilders, who meticulously executed the intricate designs.