Antique carved ebony wood dressing table mirror

The ebony mirror is designed for a woman’s dressing table. It features an oval mirrored centre within a rectangular ebony frame. The border of the mirror is decorated with beading and the body of the frame is carved with a variety of classically inspired motifs. The bottom of the frame features, at its centre, a carving of a cherub set within a cartouche. Rinceau motifs, composed of scrolled leafy vines which flower and fruit, decorate the corners of the frame. In the top corners, these vines form the lower bodies of classical semi-nude female figures. The women are depicted in reclining poses with their arms folded above their heads. The figures flank a central medallion which is carved with the profile portrait of a woman. This medallion is topped by a ribbon bow and a flower swag hangs beneath it. The outer edge of the frame is articulated by a reed-and-ribbon border.