A 19th Century Regency Period Convex Mirror

A fine regency Period convex mirror, the circular plate set within a reeded slip, the giltwood frame encrusted with ebonised balls and surmounted with an ebonised eagle clutching balls and chains from its beak, the whole terminating in carved stylised acanthus scrolls.

Convex mirrors can be traced back to the 10th century and have fascinated mankind ever since. Their popularity (once again) peaked during the French Empire and the English Regency periods where they became staple items of many households. Adorning the walls of dining rooms, they allowed waiters to keep a watchful eye on the progress of the dinner. Whilst the convex mirror shows a warped view of reality, it also magnifies light, which provides interiors with additional illumination.