A Queen Anne triple plate overmantel mirror, early 18th century with replacements to plates

with applied gilt painted lead palm fronds

This mirror is of an impressive scale and is in restored condition. The main plates are probably Georgian replacements. A number of the plates to the cresting and moulded borders are later. Please contact the department for a detailed breakdown of the replaced elements. There are cut dovetails to the frame of the back where previous larger uprights were in place behind the divides of the main plates, which have been cut out to allow for the new main plates to be inserted. The slender ebonised moulding to the returns and underside is a replacement. The gilt painted palm fronds have been replaced subsequent to the above restorations. Bearing apparent old sale number 4565 and 493/4.
"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 rare Queen Anne tripartite overmantel mirror, with its elaborately engraved cresting and gilt painted clasps used to simulate gilt-bronze, is an accomplished example of early 18th century English glassmaking. Advances in glass manufacture towards the end of the 17th and early 18th century meant it was possible to produce larger sheets of plate and overmantel mirrors were able to attain considerable size, sometimes occupying the whole area between the chimneypiece and cornice.

The maker of the present mirror is showing off range of techniques, including the complex arrangement of bevelled glass plates and beautiful engraved decoration. The ripple moulded border is also distinctive feature and pier glass with a similar border can be seen at Syon House in the collection of the Dukes of Northumberland. A related but simpler Queen Anne overmantel mirror was sold Sotheby’s London, Wednesday 29 June 2005, lot 29 (£43, 200 with premium).