BAROQUE MIRROR - ROMAN SCHOOL - 17TH CENTURY
Description:
Oval Mirror in Carved and Gilded Wood
Origin: Roman
Period: 17th Century (High Baroque)
Morphological Description and Style
A refined, small wall mirror, characterized by an oval central opening.
The frame fully expresses the vigorous and plastic language of Roman Baroque, dominated by sculptural dynamism that favors fluid volumes and a continuous play of curves and counter-curves:
The Cresting: The upper part is dominated by a stylistic element resembling a large, curled and stylized acanthus leaf, with deep and accentuated relief, fanning out upwards.
The Sides: The structure symmetrically widens into large ribbon scrolls and pierced leafy tendrils, creating almost suspended "handles" or side fins.
The Base: The lower part or apron echoes the symmetry of the cresting, closing with two large opposing volutes that provide a solid visual support.
Technique, Gilding, and Condition
Carving and Gilding: The carving is executed on soft wood (likely limewood or poplar), typical of central Italian craftsmanship of the period. The finish is achieved with gold leaf gilding.
The Patina: A splendid original patina where the underlying reddish-orange Armenian bole is widely visible beneath the gold leaf, with superficial scratches and small areas of loss to the preparatory layer attesting to its authenticity.
Dimensions: 63 cm width, 56 cm height
Analysis of the Back
The back of the frame shows clear signs of manual carving with gouges and an axe on solid wood, with a finish based on yellow ochre earth, applied in ancient times to even out and protect the unfinished wood. In the center, the oval opening holds the mirror. There is also an old wrought iron hook for hanging.
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