Set against an ebonised wood backing, this large and remarkable mirror is made with exquisite gilt metal framing, and subtly yet stunningly engraved grass around its edges.
Made in Sweden, in the 19th century, it features a central bevelled plate which is flanked by etched and engraved marginal plates to its side. These are decorated with delightful scrolls and flowerbells, the lavish scrolling pediment is itself surmounted with an urn that issues forth flowers and foliage, further flanked by beautiful repoussé decorated flowers.
A label to the verso indicates that this piece was in the collection of a Sir William Aykroyd at Grantley Hall. It is almost identical to a 18th century period mirror which is attributed either to Gustav or Burchard Precht, about whom little is known, other than works in this model.
Provenance-+
Label to verso inscribed Formerly the property of Sir William Aykroyd at Grantley Hall, near Ripon, purchased at auction September 30th 1947
For an almost identical mirror see Child (Graham) World Mirrors 1650-1900, pg.296, pl.678, where a 17th Century period mirror is attributed to Gustav Precht.