Extraordinary trumeau with bas-relief (circa 1800)

Extraordinary trumeau, fireplace mirror, with an incredible bas-relief in its centre, representing the abduction of Europa. The mirror is very old, this trumeau dates from the early 19th century, and the originality of the mirror as well as the scene depicted suggest that it was located in a cabaret or a brothel. The bas-relief is made of terracotta, fixed into the mirror with screws! In fact, they cut out the circular mirror at the top to allow the screws to be fixed into the wood at the back. Upon closer inspection, it is evident that the sculpture is of very good quality, with great finesse in the details. It is known that Zeus transformed into a bull (white, normally) to abduct and enjoy the daughter of the king of Tyre - the continent Europe is named in his honour. Here, the garlands of flowers are very well executed, as are the details in Europa's sandals, the bull's tail, or its golden eye. A cherub is also present, on the left, with its golden hair. The contrast between black and gold is truly striking, and the overall movement of the scene is very successful. This is an extremely original trumeau! The glass is very old, speckled as it should be in several places, although the reflection remains clear and functional (no general cloudiness on the glass). These are not defects per se, but rather evidence of age and unparalleled authenticity. Moreover, these reflections have a certain warmth to them. The frame is made of wood and stucco, white on the edges, and features a frieze of small golden amphorae along the border of the mirror, again a rather uncommon motif. There are signs of wear on the frame, the white paint, and the gilding, with some minor touch-ups, but all of this adds to the nobility of this unique trumeau. H: 158 cm X 89 cm. Beautiful dimensions allowing it to be placed on a fireplace or directly on the floor. My prices are firm, thank you. Delivery in the Île-de-France area to your doorstep is possible for 30 euros.