An Italian carved giltwood mirror, Venetian, mid 18th century

with a rectangular bevelled plate within a leaf and scroll carved frame surmounted by an etched mirror cresting ornamented with classical figures carved with a stylised shell, flowers, mask and scrolls flanked by nereids, the apron and sides ornamented with conforming mirror plates, similarly ornamented with classical figures

In overall good conserved condition. Attractive detail to carving. Old minor restorations generally to the carving which have been well executed and not too noticeable. Construction and hairline cracks commensurate with age. There is some minor wear to gilding, which is flaked off and chipped in places that can be easily touched up. The piece is slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste.
"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 impressive mirror is a splendid example of Venetian Rococo exuberance with its rich giltwood carvings and use of the unusual mirrored lateral cartouches. Two mirrors of related shape and with the same cartouches to the sides are known – one illustrated by Maurizio Agnellini, Mobili Italiani del Settecento, 1990, p. 153, the other sold Sotheby’s London, 29^th May 1998, lot 123 – although the carvings to their frames are not as deep as on the current lot and none carry the fine nereid figures to sides, an aquatic motif much used in another maritime trading city, Genoa. Another mirror with a similar cresting but without the lateral cartouches was sold Sotheby’s London, 4^th December 2007, lot 26.