Country House Collections at Slane Castle October 12
th
& 13
th
2014
217
658
AN IRISH GEORGE II GILTWOOD PIER MIRROR, C.1740,
the original plate with re-entrant top corners, carved-and-pierced trailing foliate border, surmounted by pierced swan-neck scrolled-rockwork
pediment with flowerhead terminals, flanking a central later applied perched eagle, above flat carved scrollwork and shells, the apron with central
stylised scallop shell on a rockwork ground, with outset scrolls and oak leaves, re-gilded. 109cm high, 65cm wide
Note: a mirror of very similar form to the offered lot is illustrated in the Knight of Glin and James Peill, Irish Furniture, 2007, pl.222, p.261; which
notes another similar mirror sold in Christie’s Birr Castle House Sale, 7th October 1981, lot 73. It is noted that the same carver may have completed
both mirrors, judging upon similarities in the carving and design. Another remarkably similar mirror was sold in Sotheby’s, London, 27th April 2010,
lot 357.
The 18th Century saw many ‘improvements’ in Ireland following the turmoil of the 17th century. There was a push from Irish nobility to promote the
country and the Arts, reflected both inside and out. These improvements were benchmarked perhaps by the establishment of the Dublin Society in
1731. Designers were brought from abroad to share their skills and visions in architecture, stucco decoration and cabinetmaking. The developments in
Guilds ensured high standards of workmanship in the trades. This mirror provides a fine example of 18th century craftsmanship. It showcases period
decorative elements, such as swags of oak leaves to the pierced borders, sacred to Jupiter, below scallop shells, the symbol of Venus; which we see
echoed through furniture over the ages.
€6000 - 8000
