A charming and increasingly scarce Empire/Biedermeier wall mirror dating to circa 1830-1845, featuring an original reverse-painted pastoral glass panel depicting a young girl standing within a landscape setting.

The mirror retains its striking ebonized and gilt decoration, including turned half-columns and gilt ball ornamentation along the crest. The hand-painted panel exhibits beautiful age and patina and appears to be executed on glass in the traditional reverse-painting technique, a decorative art form highly prized by collectors of early nineteenth-century European furnishings.

The reverse-painted scene is wonderfully evocative of the Romantic period and is complemented by the mirror's elegant architectural form. The original mercury-style mirror plate displays expected age and character, enhancing its authenticity and antique appeal.

The construction of the piece-including the hand-planed boards, dark oxidized wood, and early methods of assembly visible on the reverse-supports a dating to the second quarter of the nineteenth century, circa 1830-1845.

This rare decorative mirror would make a wonderful addition to an Empire, Biedermeier, European country, or traditional interior.

Dimensions:

26 inches high
13 inches wide
2 inches deep
Approximately 8 pounds

A highly decorative and unusual nineteenth-century example that combines folk art charm with sophisticated Empire design.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Age-appropriate wear to the ebonized and gilt finish, scattered paint losses and craquelure to the reverse-painted glass panel, and expected wear and spotting to the antique mirror plate. Minor losses and imperfections to the frame commensurate with nearly two centuries of age. Presents beautifully.

Origin:
Germany

Materials & Techniques:
Mirror, Paint, Wood

Details:
Country of Origin: Germany
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Age-appropriate wear to the ebonized and gilt finish, scattered paint losses and craquelure to the reverse-painted glass panel, and expected wear and spotting to the antique mirror plate. Minor losses and imperfections to the frame commensurate with nearly two centuries of age. Presents beautifully.