A PAIR OF WILLIAM IV GILTWOOD GIRANDOLES

These magnificent and ornate girandole mirrors in the 'French' style are derived from designs by Thomas Johnson (1714-1778) included in his One Hundred & Fifty New Designs, published in 1761, pls. 46 & 52. Thomas Johnson was particularly known for his extravagant use and mixture of roccoco forms, Chinoiserie and rustic motifs and was considered one of the most successful exponents of the roccoco style which he would pervade with vitality and harmony. His published designs were much drawn upon during the roccoco revival of the 1830s and 40s and would certainly have been drawn on by such keen exponents of the style as Thomas de Grey, 2nd Earl de Grey (1781-1859). de Grey was responsible for the design of his Bedfordshire home, Wrest Park which is justly recognised as one of the best examples of the roccoco revival in the country.