This is the first mirror of its type we have owned, and
for that matter, seen with its original Wedgwood panel, which is itself
a fine work of art (see details below). This overmantle mirror has a
commanding presence, and is related to an example illustrated in Edgar
Miller's American Antiques, of slightly different proportions (more vertical than horizontal).
The subject of the Wedgwood
tablet, 'An Offering to Peace', is after a design by Lady Elizabeth
Templetown (1747-1823), the first female artist to be employed by Josiah
Wedgwood. A tablet depicting this subject is discussed and illustrated
in Robin Reilly, "Wedgwood Jasper," cl. pl. C 24."
Our mirror has its original
glass and is in a perfect state of preservation, with its gilding
reinvigorated to give the glowing gold color that it had when it was
made.
This mirror is the best of the best and relates to a very exceptional
mantelpiece offered by Francis J. Purcell, II, a dealer in mantlepieces
of the highest order (see below for a scan of this ad). That
mantelpiece has a large, central Welford mount, and related swags.