18th century gilt gesso looking glass
18th century gilt gesso looking glass
6260
An 18th century Italian gilt gesso framed looking glass with original foxed mirror mercury glass plate, circa 1780.
Mercury glass mirrors emerged in the early 19th century as a cheaper alternative to traditional silver mirrors. Developed in Germany and Bohemia, they featured double-walled glass coated with a mercury-tin amalgam. these mirrors became prized for their distinctive, antique patina, reflecting the period's decorative tastes. And it is this foxing and patina that is so sought after today.
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