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C. 1855 Bronze Boulle Mirror w/ inlaid Tortoise Shell browse these categories for related items... All Items: Sculpture: Bronze: Pre 1900: item #710255
$9,800 |
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| Deorative Antique Bronze Boulle Mirror with inlaid Tortoise Shell faming the beveled mirror. The stylized fretwork of bronze overlay in a leaf motif, exceptional Mirror, Circa 1855 Mirror, H:4'6" W:2'8" History of Bronze which refers to a broad range of copper alloys, usually with tin as the main additive, but sometimes with other elements. With the exception of steel, bronze is superior to iron in nearly every application. Although bronze develops a patina, it does not oxidize beyond the surface. It is considerably less brittle than iron and in this decorative use as a fretwork over the Tortoise Shell Mirror Frame it adds another layer and elegance to this mirror. Mirrors are important in history, from the late 17th century onward, mirrors—and their frames—played an increasingly important part in the decoration of rooms. The early frames were usually of ivory, silver, ebony, or tortoise shell or were veneered with marquetry of walnut, and other decorative woods that were available. On the whole, mirror frames reflected the general taste of the time and were often changed to accommodate alterations in taste, frames usually being cheaper and hence more easily replaced than the mirror itself. By the end of the 18th century, painted decoration largely supplanted carving on mirrors, the frames being decorated with floral patterns or classical ornaments. At the same time, the French started producing circular mirrors, usually surrounded by a Neoclassical gilt frame that sometimes supported candlesticks, which enjoyed great popularity well into the 19th century. Improved skill in mirror making also made possible the introduction of the cheval glass, a freestanding full-length mirror, supported on a frame with four feet. These were mainly used for dressing purposes, though occasionally they had a decorative function. So as Social History goes the Mirror played an essential part in the decor of the rooms and fashion of the times. LifestyleAntiques.com is the web site where one can shop on line or if you are in the area we are an antique dealer in Summerland, California just 3 minutes south of Santa Barbara. Specializing in European antique furniture and our accent is antique lighting for your home, or office with handmade parchment shades adorning the selection of unique lamps. We specialize in Decorative Arts and French furniture as well as antique furniture from Spain and Italy, you will find the shop warm and inviting. | ||||||||||
