A Pair of George II Style Carved Giltwood Mirrors

Description

A Fine and Large Pair of George II Style Carved Giltwood Mirrors or Pier Glasses.

Each has a rectangular divided sectional mirror plate within a pierced surround surmounted by a perching ho-ho bird. The frame elaborately carved with acanthus, ‘C’-scrolls’ rocaille, Gothick arches, rock-work and icicles. Pier Glasses were large decorative mirrors designed to be placed on the wall or ‘pier’ between windows. Not only did they have a decorative purpose, but provided an important functional use, creating a reversal of dynamic with the windows at night, reflecting and maximising the light given off by candles or oil lamps.