Mirror

Robert Adam (1728 - 1792)

V&A (Victoria & Albert Museum)

1770 - 1771

This elaborate carved giltwood mirror was designed for Coventry House, Piccadilly, the great London house of the 6th Earl of Coventry (1722-1809). It incorporates Adam's characteristic motif of draped female figures which flank the oval glass which they appear to hold up by clasping the ropes from which the glass is suspended. This daring conceit was probably inspired by Adam's knowledge of Italian baroque art. The ropes are attached to a medallion embellished with a lion's mask, and they extend beyond the figures and medallion in decorative bows with suspended tassels. The oval mirror frame has a fluted reserve within a lotus leaf border. The design and execution of this mirror was of an unprecedented scale and quality.

• Medium: giltwood
• Dimensions: 340 x 190 cm
• Art Fund Grant: £25000 ( Total: £325,000)
• ArtFunded in: 1992
• Vendor: Pelham Galleries

Provenance

Made for the Eating Room, Coventry House; Benjamin Sonnenberg, New York; Sotheby's,8/6/79, lot 1628.

Add your comments about this artwork Hide this form

Have your say