Located in central Italy, Florence has been an important European city ever since the Medici family rose to prominence in the 15th century. The city became a huge production center for all types of commercial goods, including hand-carved wooden furniture and accessories. This fabulous black and gold wall mirror, dating to circa 1850, is a beautiful example of such Florentine craftsmanship.

A thick ring of golden husks, highlighted by a black bundling strap, encircles an oval mirror with beveled edges. The mirrored section is further surrounded by an enormous margent of highly carved leaf curls, full of movement and life. All the leaves, including the massive 13 ½ inch thick crest are painted in gold with black. Hidden amongst the foliage on the sides are two grape clusters entirely in gold.

Vibrant mirrors with sweeping curled leaf margents and the protruding crest have been produced in Florence for hundreds of years, but this example is exquisite due to its size and color scheme. The stunning black and gold mirror would make quite an impression on a large wall such as in an entryway or living room.

CONDITION: Strong antique condition, with very light age separations, fleabites, and minor losses. Traces of old repairs coupled with more recent restoration work. The original glass has some loss of silvering, mainly along the edges.