An Italian mother of pearl inlaid green lacquered and parcel-gilt mirror, Venetian late 17th/early 18th century

the pierced cresting surmounted by a stylised scallopshell above a lambrequin and scrolls, the rectangular plate within a moulded frame with projecting angles decorated with scrolling foliage and inlaid with mother-of pearl roundels

Colour overall slightly darker and much more attractive than in photo. The roundel on the top border looks a later replacement. Hairline construction cracks at joints commensurate with age which can easily be filled or even left. Old minor restorations to the cresting which has been strengthened at the back which does not detract form the piece. Rebacked. An attractive lot in overall good condition. Measurements: H = 112.5 cm; W = 73 cm
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This mirror testifies to the fascination that Venetian craftsmen had with the Orient. Venice's extensive trade contacts with the East permeated throughout the decorative arts and were a source of inspiration for cabinet-makers.

The lacquer on the present mirror is clearly reminiscent of Oriental products that would have been largely available in Venice. For mirrors using a similar lacquer technique, often combined with mother-of-pearl, see Hans Huth, Lacquer of the West, Chicago, 1971, figs 103-104 and Graham Child, World Mirrors, London, 1990, p. 261, fig. 548. The green colour is highly unusual as usually these mirrors are in dark brown lacquer imitating walnut.

Examples of related mirrors in this technique although in brown lacquer,  were sold in these Rooms, lot 60, 10th June 1999, and the Mirror Sale, 8th June 2005, lot 103.