Pair of Renaissance style ormolu mirrors with candelabra

This fine pair of mirrors is crafted from ormolu, or gilt bronze, in the Renaissance manner. Each mirror features a highly elaborate pierced ormolu frame composed of scrolled acanthus leaves and other foliate forms, interspersed with a plethora of Classical motifs, busts, and masks. 

The frame of each is set with a cornucopia-like crown, while the frame is detailed throughout with lion’s heads, espagnolette-type busts, and classical masks. The bottom of each frame features an open-mouth grotesque mask, below which springs three scrolled light branches—each branch terminating in a single candleholder.

The detailing throughout is wonderfully ornate, with a profusion of elements and classical references granting the pair a charming character. The clarity of the central space is offset by the extensive, elaborate, and highly decorative nature of the exterior; the candelabra are a particularly fine addition, granting the mirror a light source of their own, and allowing them to illuminate their gilt frames with a beautiful warm glow.