Regenecy Giltwood Convex Girandole

Dimensions- Height 150 cm, Width 75 cm

Circa- Late 18th Century

Style- Regency

Materials-  Ebonized Wood, Giltwood, and Brass candle arms

Background- 

In an era before widespread electric lighting, convex mirrors played a crucial role in maximizing the effect of candlelight. The curved surface would capture and reflect the flickering light from the attached candles (or nearby light sources), spreading it more broadly throughout the room. This made them both decorative and functional.

The convex shape offered a panoramic view of the room, allowing occupants to see more of their surroundings without turning their heads. This was not just practical but also added a sense of spaciousness to interiors.

Regency design often incorporated classical and sometimes nautical motifs. You can see elements like stylized laurel wreaths, ropes, and sometimes even anchors in the ornamentation of these mirrors, reflecting the era's interests.

Owning a large and elaborately decorated giltwood convex mirror was a sign of affluence and good taste during the Regency period. They were often placed in prominent positions in drawing rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.

The term "girandole" specifically refers to a branched support for candles or lights. When a convex mirror incorporated candle arms, it became known as a girandole mirror.