Antique Italian Baroque Mirror, 1st half 1700s

Antique Italian baroque mirror, originating from the first half of the 18th century. Truly a picture from the past, this hand-carved walnut frame with remnants of gold leaf all around. The frame is decorated with flowing acanthus leaves and volutes. There are clear traces of gold leaf on a white chalk base (gesso). The red or brown hue that shines through here and there is the 'bolus', the traditional clay layer applied under the gold leaf. This specific model was often made in the 18th century as a picture frame that was later fitted with mirror glass. The mirror glass shows slight weathering (oxidation of the silver layer) along the edges, which enhances the antique appearance. Furthermore, it has undergone some old restorations in the past.