Italian Regency Round Giltwood and Ebonized Convex Mirror with Carved Eagle

This Italian antique early 19th century round convex wall mirror featuring the original mercury mirror plate housed in a giltwood and ebonized frame surmounted by a hand carved giltwood eagle pediment, is a rare and delightful example of Regency or Empire Period (1804-1815 circa) mirror that is distinguished by its statement size and boldly carved eagle cresting. A classical yet chic and super decorative bulls eye wall mirror that still retains its original gold leaves gilding. The outer moulded round frame is decorated with giltwood spheres, the central black ebonized and reeded ring inner frame adds a perfect contrast to the gold, the all with an impressive finely sculpted perched eagle atop. Wonderful Empire period patterns and decorations that will make this mirror a focal point in any interior project. The Eagle is a common decorative elements on Regency period as an appropriate iconography for the themes of power and victory prevalent during the Napoleonic wars of the early 19th century. This mirror is an exhibition of quality and an excellent period example of early 19th century craftsmanship. The particular convex shape of the glass both helps to make a room look and feel bigger and spreads the light in as many different directions as possible. with its lovely finish and elegant décor it will enliven any wall beautifully, whether placed above a commode, enfilade or console table. Great scale and proportion, wonderful original condition from gilding to patina, convex mercury mirror plate is original to the frame. This mirror still retains the original wood back. Very minor wear and chips to gilding due to age and use, very minor age oxidation to the mirror glass however the mirror presenting exceptionally well. Bull's eye or convex mirrors first became extremely popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries and still are highly sought after from collectors and interior designers worldwide. The style was called ‘Regency’ in England, ‘Empire’ in France and Italy, Biedermeier in the German-speaking lands,all of which were relatively similar, and the American ‘Federal’ style evolved directly from these.The creation of convex mirrors became possible with the development of glass blowing and their shape and style became so popular under the heading ‘Mirrors’, in Sheraton’s 'Cabinet Dictionary' (1803), that they are the only style mentioned. These mirrors also known as “surveillance mirrors” were usually displayed in dining rooms where entertainment was occurring. The outward bending glass allowed the butler and servers to see the entire room while staying discreetly out of sight. Measures: Diameter 64, height 87, depth 8 cm.