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This Napoleon III mirror is an exceptional example of Second Empire grandeur
The carved giltwood frame features garlands, doves, flowers and Apollo's torch
Napoleon III Giltwood Mirror
Only the most wealthy could afford mirrors, due to the cost and skill needed to make them
Period mirrors of this size and condition are extremely rare
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Napoleon III Giltwood Mirror

  • This Napoleon III mirror is distinguished by its incredible size and ornate design
  • The hand-carved giltwood frame is a fantastic specimen of French design
  • Mirrors of this grand size and quality were costly to produce, making them luxuries of the elite
  • Get complete item description here
$38,500
Item No. 29-2041

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Description
Grand in size and decoration, this exceptional Napoleon III-period mirror is further set apart by an elaborate giltwood frame that features decorative elements such as garlands, doves, a basket of flowers, and Apollo's torch. The magnificent size, expertly executed woodwork and beautiful condition of this mirror make it a prized specimen of 19th-century French design. Costly and labor-intensive to produce, mirrors such as this were considered luxury items, their ownership limited to an exclusive few.. . .
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Grand in size and decoration, this exceptional Napoleon III-period mirror is further set apart by an elaborate giltwood frame that features decorative elements such as garlands, doves, a basket of flowers, and Apollo's torch. The magnificent size, expertly executed woodwork and beautiful condition of this mirror make it a prized specimen of 19th-century French design. Costly and labor-intensive to produce, mirrors such as this were considered luxury items, their ownership limited to an exclusive few. The finest were made by the best craftsmen in the area and to find one in such superb condition is truly rare.

Circa 1870

55 1/4" wide x 78" high

Largely due to the influence of Emperor Napoleon III, who wished to have his name associated with the classical grandeur of Rome and cement his place in French history, the decorative style of this period, known as the Second Empire, is distinguished by a vast mixture of styles from previous centuries. Eclecticism reigned as craftsmen revisited the most opulent styles from decades past and created their own elaborate versions. Artisans were inspired by the Renaissance, Henri II furniture, Boulle furniture of the baroque period, rococo and neoclassic Louis XVI furniture. Inspiration also came from the near and far East, as the treasures of China, Japan and Constantinople made their way to Europe.
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This Napoleon III mirror is an exceptional example of Second Empire grandeur
Period: 19th Century
Origin: France
Type: Other
Style: Empire
Depth: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Width: 57.5 in. (146.05 cm)
Height: 79.0 in. (200.66 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.