Massachusetts Federal Giltwood & Ebonized Pier Mirror With Fruit Basket, c.1820

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This striking Massachusetts Federal pier mirror dates to circa 1820 and reflects the elegant architectural character of early American design. … Read more This striking Massachusetts Federal pier mirror dates to circa 1820 and reflects the elegant architectural character of early American design. Its tall, narrow proportions were intended for placement between windows or over a console, where the mirror would help reflect light into an interior. The bold combination of gold and black gives the piece a dramatic presence that works beautifully in both traditional and collected modern spaces.

The giltwood frame is arranged like a classical facade, with ebonized columnar elements, molded capitals, rope-twist borders, and a projecting cornice decorated with black ball ornaments. Above the mirror plate, a raised gilt fruit basket featuring a pineapple, grapes, and foliage is set against a gold panel with an ebonized base. The aged mirror plate adds softness and character to the formal composition.

The mirror is in nice antique condition with expected wear and patina from age and use. There is visible age-related cracking, scattered finish loss, wear to the gilding and ebonized decoration, and deterioration to the paper backing. The mirror remains a handsome and highly decorative example of Federal-period craftsmanship. 36h x 21w x 4d See less