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This Napoleon III mirror is an exceptional example of Second Empire grandeur
The carved giltwood frame features garlands, doves, flowers and Apollo's torch
Napoleon III Giltwood Mirror
Only the most wealthy could afford mirrors, due to the cost and skill needed to make them
Period mirrors of this size and condition are extremely rare
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Napoleon III Giltwood Mirror

  • This Napoleon III mirror is distinguished by its incredible size and ornate design
  • The hand-carved giltwood frame is a fantastic specimen of French design
  • Mirrors of this grand size and quality were costly to produce, making them luxuries of the elite
  • Get complete item description here
$38,500
Item No. 29-2041

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Description
Grand in size and decoration, this exceptional Napoleon III-period mirror is further set apart by an elaborate giltwood frame that features decorative elements such as garlands, doves, a basket of flowers, and Apollo's torch. The magnificent size, expertly executed woodwork and beautiful condition of this mirror make it a prized specimen of 19th-century French design. Costly and labor-intensive to produce, mirrors such as this were considered luxury items, their ownership limited to an exclusive few.. . .
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Grand in size and decoration, this exceptional Napoleon III-period mirror is further set apart by an elaborate giltwood frame that features decorative elements such as garlands, doves, a basket of flowers, and Apollo's torch. The magnificent size, expertly executed woodwork and beautiful condition of this mirror make it a prized specimen of 19th-century French design. Costly and labor-intensive to produce, mirrors such as this were considered luxury items, their ownership limited to an exclusive few. The finest were made by the best craftsmen in the area and to find one in such superb condition is truly rare.

Circa 1870

55 1/4" wide x 78" high

Largely due to the influence of Emperor Napoleon III, who wished to have his name associated with the classical grandeur of Rome and cement his place in French history, the decorative style of this period, known as the Second Empire, is distinguished by a vast mixture of styles from previous centuries. Eclecticism reigned as craftsmen revisited the most opulent styles from decades past and created their own elaborate versions. Artisans were inspired by the Renaissance, Henri II furniture, Boulle furniture of the baroque period, rococo and neoclassic Louis XVI furniture. Inspiration also came from the near and far East, as the treasures of China, Japan and Constantinople made their way to Europe.
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This Napoleon III mirror is an exceptional example of Second Empire grandeur
Period: 19th Century
Origin: France
Type: Other
Style: Empire
Depth: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Width: 57.5 in. (146.05 cm)
Height: 79.0 in. (200.66 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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