Description
An exceptionally fine late 19th-century pier mirror, of elegant neoclassical form with a broken-arch pediment surmounted by urn finials. The entire surface is richly decorated with arabesque inlay combining finely engraved metal (likely brass or bronze) with subtle touches of colored fruitwood, creating a striking ornamental contrast against the warm walnut ground. The design features scrolling foliage, floral medallions, and foliate borders in the manner of continental cabinetmaking workshops active during the last quarter of the 19th century. The craftsmanship reveals precise hand-cutting and delicate engraving, typical of luxury marquetry furniture produced in Northern Italy or Southern Germany. The mirror retains its original beveled plate and backboard, exhibiting a mellow patina consistent with age.
Walnut and mixed fruitwoods with extensive hand-cut inlay of brass or bronze alloy and occasional colored fruitwood details; original beveled mirror glass.
Mirrors of this type and refinement were often produced in Austro-Italian or South German workshops, where marquetry and metal inlay were combined to achieve luxurious visual effects. The precision of the metalwork and elegant architectural composition make this an outstanding and decorative example of late 19th-century European craftsmanship.
Comparable examples featuring brass or bronze marquetry appear in select European and American auctions. Surviving in its original condition with period mirror and finish, this piece represents a rare and highly desirable decorative mirror from the late 19th century.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: All original throughout, including mirror plate and surface finish. Minor age-related craquelure and several small losses to inlay, mostly confined to high-relief decorative elements. Overall presentation remains excellent with authentic patina and structural integrity intact.
Professional appraisal is available upon request
Dimensions:
Height: 68 in.
Width: 23.5 in.
Depth: 2 in.
Category: Pier & Console Mirrors
Origin: Italy
Materials: Walnut
Shipping:For an exact shipping quote, please email us at help@chairishauctions.com with your zip code. Exact shipping costs are dependent on destination, but can range between $230-$1500 for large/bulky items shipped to the continental United States. Note: there may be additional charges for ferry destinations. No local pickup for this auction. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Location: This item ships from Houston, TX
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Walnut and mixed fruitwoods with extensive hand-cut inlay of brass or bronze alloy and occasional colored fruitwood details; original beveled mirror glass.
Mirrors of this type and refinement were often produced in Austro-Italian or South German workshops, where marquetry and metal inlay were combined to achieve luxurious visual effects. The precision of the metalwork and elegant architectural composition make this an outstanding and decorative example of late 19th-century European craftsmanship.
Comparable examples featuring brass or bronze marquetry appear in select European and American auctions. Surviving in its original condition with period mirror and finish, this piece represents a rare and highly desirable decorative mirror from the late 19th century.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: All original throughout, including mirror plate and surface finish. Minor age-related craquelure and several small losses to inlay, mostly confined to high-relief decorative elements. Overall presentation remains excellent with authentic patina and structural integrity intact.
Professional appraisal is available upon request
Dimensions:
Height: 68 in.
Width: 23.5 in.
Depth: 2 in.
Category: Pier & Console Mirrors
Origin: Italy
Materials: Walnut
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; All original throughout, including mirror plate and surface finish. Minor age-related craquelure and several small losses to inlay, mostly confined to high-relief decorative elements. Overall presentation remains excellent with authentic patina and structural integrity intact.
Professional appraisal is available upon request
Professional appraisal is available upon request
Buyer's Premium
20%
Antique Inlaid Pier Mirror 1880 -1890
Estimate $1,750-$5,250
Starting Price
$1,100
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Well Collected: Vintage, Art & Interiors I
May 22, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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