Exceptional in size and craftsmanship, this over-mantel mirror is an outstanding example of dramatic Rococo design. Bearing the hallmarks of 18th-century craftsmanship, the mirror features a striking frame expertly carved of lustrous giltwood in a graceful arabesque form, incorporating hallmark Rococo elements such as flourishing acanthus, C and S-scrolls, flowers and shells.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, mirrors were costly luxury items, for the difficulty and expense to produce glass suitable for a mirror confined their ownership to an exclusive minority. Since the process to produce mirrored glass was so costly and labor-intensive, the frames that surrounded these treasured items were important in both function and desi