Antique French Gold Leaf Gilt Louis Philippe Mirror with Crest

This elegant antique mirror with elaborate crest and intricate etching is made in France, circa 1870. It has the upper rounded corners typical for Louis Philippe mirrors. The frame is enriched with a beautiful ornate crest built on a central shell motif flanked by acanthus and flowers. A delicate pearl beading surrounds the original mirror glass. The most elevated part of the frame has a floral etching that is highly polished. The whole frame is gilt by the use of the gold leaf. Some parts have more gloss and a warmer undertone. This is where the gold leaf was polished more to achieve higher gloss and as a result of the polishing, the gold got thinner and the red bole undercoat shines through slightly thus giving the gold a warmer appearance. The gold is attached to the frame by the use of a water-based glue called mixtion. This mirror has only undergone dry cleaning during its lifespan. Therefore, the gold leaf gilding is in almost mint condition. The mirror also has its original silver nitrate silvered mirror glass and pine back cladding. The whole piece is in exceptional good authentic condition and is ready for use.