Gilded bronze hand mirror with cherub, Neo-Rococo style (6303)

Dimensions:
Height — 31 cm
Width — 13.5 cm

Gilded bronze hand mirror with cherub — Neo-Rococo style

A charming gilded bronze/brass hand mirror (gilt bronze ), crafted in the graceful language of the Neo-Rococo (Rococo revival) style. The openwork, high-relief cast frame is crowned by a small (cherub) — a smiling angel’s head nestled among scrolls and flowers —, while its edges are entwined with floral garlands, rose bouquets, and asymmetrical rocaille scrolls, so characteristic of the spirit of the Louis XV era. At the center is enclosed a faceted (beveled edge) mirror glass, whose bevel catches the light and adds depth to the reflection.

The handle continues the same decorative language — with volutes, openwork perforations, and chased foliage —, while at the top is a loop that also allows the mirror to be hung. The back is a smooth brass plate with screws holding the decorative front. The metal is cast and chased with noticeable care; the gilding has acquired a warm, lively patina.

A snapshot of the Neo-Rococo era: In the late morning, by the boudoir window, an actress sat, waiting for her maid to arrange her hair before the performance. Bored, she picked up something light and cool from the dressing table, turned it towards the light — and instead of her face, the features of a smiling child, cast in metal, flashed for a moment in the glass frame. The scent of flowers and powder drifted in from the window, and a carriage clattered down in the street below. She smiled at her reflection, and the reflection — through the little gilded angel — smiled back. It was time to go to the theatre.

Period of Manufacture. The mirror dates from the late 19th – early 20th century, the heyday of the Neo-Rococo style.

Application. A practical and decorative item simultaneously — a adornment for the dressing table, a for daily use, or an elegant vintage accent to display on a stand or hang by the top loop. Such a mirror makes a lovely gift and a welcome addition to a collection.

Condition. Good condition, commensurate with age; the glass has minor age spots (foxing) in places, which is natural for vintage mirrors, and the metal has a warm patina. The condition of the item is fully reflected in the photographs.

Dimensions:
Height — 31 cm
Width — 13.5 cm

Gilded bronze with cherub, Neo-Rococo style (6303)

An elegant gilded bronze/brass in the graceful Neo-Rococo style. This exquisite piece features an openwork, high-relief cast frame adorned with a charming cherub, intricate floral garlands, and swirling scrolls characteristic of the Louis XV era. The frame surrounds a central faceted mirror glass, designed to catch and reflect light beautifully. The decorative handle echoes the ornate style with volutes and chased foliage, and a loop at the top allows for hanging.

Craftsmanship & Period
The mirror is crafted from gilded bronze/brass, with the metal meticulously cast and chased. The gilding has developed a warm, natural patina over time. This piece dates to the late 19th to early 20th century, representing the flourishing period of the Neo-Rococo style.

Maker / Signature / Mark
Not known.

Rarity & Significance
The Neo-Rococo style, a revival of Rococo elements, was popular in the late 19th century, and pieces like this, with their detailed craftsmanship and charming motifs, are highly sought after by collectors of decorative arts.

Application & Interior Use
This mirror is both a functional item and a decorative accent. It can grace a dressing table, serve as a daily , or be displayed as an elegant vintage piece on a stand or hung by its loop. It makes a thoughtful gift and a delightful addition to any collection.

Condition
The mirror is in good condition, consistent with its age. The glass shows minor natural age spots (foxing), and the metal boasts a warm patina. The condition of the item is fully reflected in the photographs.

Victorian Snapshot: In the late morning, by the boudoir window, an actress sat, waiting for her maid to arrange her hair before the performance. Bored, she picked up something cool from the dressing table, turned it towards the light — and instead of her face, the features of a smiling child, cast in metal, flashed for a moment in the glass frame. The scent of flowers and powder drifted in from the window, and a carriage clattered down in the street below. She smiled at her reflection, and the reflection — through the little gilded angel — smiled back. It was time to go to the theatre.