A carved giltwood and gesso wall mirror 2nd quarter 19th century, possibly Irish

in the manner of Thomas Johnson

This mirror is in `country house' condition. The gilding has wear throughout with some traces of earlier gilding beneath the present surface. Some characteristic losses to carved detail, consistent with age, throughout, and age cracks along lines of construction. Both ho-ho birds have old restored breaks. One loose carved bird to foliate ornament on the left hand side. The other is lacking a wing. Breaks and losses to carved foliate decoration on both sides. Some loose elements to apron.
"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."

The offered lot relates stylistically to mirrors designed by Thomas Johnson in the mid-18th century. The cresting carved with scrolls and  foliage and flanked by Ho-Ho birds, with the carved animals below and similar foliate and scroll carving to the apron are inspired by his most elaborate designs seen published in his `Collection of Designs' of 1758 and in particular to plate 4 of the 1758 designs and plate 22 of his later designs published in 1761 but which were rarely executed in such an elaborate way during those periods.

These rococo designs gradually fell from favour being superseded by the fashionable neo-classical style from around 1765 onwards. Around 1820 saw a revival of interest in the rococo  in which King George IV was to play an important role and which can be seen in his extensive re-modelling of Windsor Castle and in other royal residences around this period. The style was particularly fashionable for drawing rooms. The present lot, with its over-elaborate carved detail and ornament is a typical interpretation of the rococo style of this period. The style gained further impetus with John Weale's re-publication of designs by Lock, Johnson and Chippendale between 1833 and 1858.