Exceptional French Napoleon III vanity mirror dating from circa 1870–1885, crafted in Paris during the height of the Second Empire.
This luxurious toilette de dame piece features finely cast and fire-gilded ormolu bronze columns, laurel wreaths and pineapple finials, supporting an elegant oval mirror framed by rare cobalt blue and amber layered glass. The base is made from thick white opaline glass, a material reserved for the finest 19th century French dressing table sets.
The original 19th century silvered mirror plate remains intact, showing authentic age-related oxidation and patina that confirms its period and originality.
Such mirrors were created for the most refined Parisian interiors and were part of complete dressing table ensembles for aristocratic ladies.
Details:
• Origin: Paris, France
• Date: Napoleon III, c.1870–1885
• Material: Fire-gilded bronze (ormolu), opaline glass, layered colored glass, original silvered mirror
• Dimensions: Overall height: 33cm / 13in; Width: 27cm / 10.6in; Depth: 11cm / 4.3in; Mirror plate: 20cm x 17cm / 7.9in x 6.7in
• Condition: Very good original antique condition. The ormolu retains its original gilding with gentle wear and warm patina. The opaline base and colored glass borders are intact. The mirror is original to the piece and shows natural 19th century oxidation spots and light surface marks, consistent with age and authenticity.
(The photographs form an integral part of the description.)
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
