Antique French Turn of the Century Louis XVI Hand Painted Trumeau Mirror

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Description

This highly decorative Louis XVI-style trumeau mirror presents an elegant combination of painted decoration, parcel-gilt ornament, a hand-painted figural panel, … Read more This highly decorative Louis XVI-style trumeau mirror presents an elegant combination of painted decoration, parcel-gilt ornament, a hand-painted figural panel, and integrated candelabra-form wall lights. Designed in the tradition of the grand French trumeau, the piece is conceived as an architectural composition rather than simply a framed looking glass, making it particularly suitable for placement above a mantel, console, or commode.

The large rectangular mirror plate occupies the lower central portion of the frame and is enclosed by a finely molded surround with subtle gilt and pale blue accents. Above the mirror is an especially charming oval hand-painted panel depicting putti or cherubic figures among clouds. Rendered in soft pastel tones of blue, rose, cream, and flesh colors, the scene has the romantic character of eighteenth-century French decorative painting and provides a pleasing contrast to the more architectural treatment of the surrounding frame.

The painted wooden framework is finished primarily in a warm ivory or antique cream, relieved throughout with parcel-gilt detailing and restrained pale blue decoration. Tall vertical panels flank the mirror, each containing delicate lattice-patterned decoration within molded borders. The upper portions are enriched with carved and gilded ribbons, bows, floral swags, pendant garlands, and foliate ornament, all strongly associated with the neoclassical decorative vocabulary of the Louis XVI period. Additional gilt corner ornaments surround the oval painted panel, while gilt moldings define the upper cornice and lower plinth.

Of particular interest are the two attached candelabra-form sconces, one positioned on either side of the mirror. Each incorporates scrolling metal arms supporting candle-form lights, creating a symmetrical arrangement that would provide illumination while dramatically reflecting light in the mirror plate. Their placement transforms the piece into both a decorative mirror and an architectural lighting fixture.

The overall surface displays the attractive character expected of an older decorative furnishing, including variations in the painted and gilt finishes and signs of age consistent with use.

The sconces have been electrified; however, the existing wiring is not guaranteed to meet current American electrical standards. Because the age and condition of the electrical components cannot be determined from appearance alone, the sconces should be inspected by a qualified electrician before installation or use and may require complete rewiring. With its hand-painted cherub panel, neoclassical garlands, parcel-gilt highlights, integrated candelabra, and substantial architectural presence, this is an unusually decorative interpretation of the classic French trumeau mirror.




Dimensions: 66.5 inches high x 48 inches wide x 7.25 inches deep See less