This is a fabulous aesthetic movement mirror from the late 19th century, probably English. The frame is ebonized and decorated with incised, hand-painted and gilded decorations featuring floral swags and a lion mask on the top, and a lovely maiden on either side of the glass. The mirror glass is 7.5 inches square and bevelled, and has wonderful patina. There are five visible boreholes around the perimeter of the frame which would have held coat hooks that are now absent.
This mirror exhibits all the hallmarks of the aesthetic movement, which flourished in England from 1860 to 1900. Artists and furniture designers from this movement found inspiration in a variety of cultures and periods, including Greek, Egyptian most notably Japanese art.  Here the oriental-inspired elements are seen in the slightly asymmetric design of the two maidens, each delicately drawn by the side of a pond, framed by trees and flowers.
A truly striking piece that would look wonderful in any decor.

24.75" by 24.75"
Provenance: From the collection of William L. Bernhard and Catherine Cahill, Southampton, New York