A PAIR OF GEORGE II OVAL GILTWOOD MIRRORS

This form of mirror, with its impressive yet elegant tied palm fronds, representing classical motifs of victory alongside biblical symbolism, was particularly popular with 18th century furniture makers. Two related designs by John Linnell show similar sweeping and ribbon-tied palms, although with an urn and open medallion crest respectively (H. Hayward and P. Kirkham, William and John Linnell, London, 1980, vol. II, pp. 102, fig. 196 and pp. 115, fig 222). Mayhew and Ince's The Universal System of Household Furniture, London, 1762 shows a design for a 'Concave Glass' with a very similar 'closed' crest to the present lot (Pl. LXXVII).