Omar Ramsden & Alwyn C.E. Carr

the back fo the mirror embossed and chased with a personification of Beauty as a young woman in classical dress, flanked by sheafs of lilies and surrounded by the words, ``Spirit of Beauty Tarry Yet Awhile,'' edged by spiral clouds, the handle mounted on each side with a blue and green enameled heart, overlaid with silver wire, and monogrammed EAH

Sotheby's, New York, 11 March 2004, lot 1

mirror glass distressed, some of shaped silver border holding it missing at 11 o'clock, one enamel heart with fracture but stable, otherwise good
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The lines inscribed on this piece are from Oscar Wilde's 1881 poem The Garden of Eros.  While this particular line is highly appropriate for a mirror, the poem's overall lament for the growth of materialism in England fits well with the Arts and Crafts ethos,

Spirit of Beauty, tarry yet awhile!
Although the cheating merchants of the mart
With iron roads profane our lovely isle,
And break on whirling wheels the limbs of Art,
Ay! though the crowded factories beget
The blindworm Ignorance that slays the soul, O tarry yet!