William and Mary Walnut Oyster Veneer Cushion Framed Mirror c. 1690

A beautiful deeply cushioned late 17th century mirror of a good size and the walnut with a beautiful palette of colours from a dark toffee to mid amber all with fine black figured grain and pale golden flashes.

The principal frame of curved walnut oyster veneers set within a wide shaped and crossbanded outer border. The inner frame with an ogee shaped finely carved border.

The frame in lovely original condition with a tiny loss to the tip of one corner and a few small knocks and nibbles to the back and outermost border consistent with age and use.

There are about 15 old worm holes to the back frame, all long since dead and inactive.

As with most mirrors of this great age, the original crest which would have sat above the frame has long since been lost and the grooves on the backboard show where it was once fitted. These crests became unfashionable in the mid 18th Century when more linear furniture of Neoclassical form became popular and the crests were often removed as a result (probably popped in the base of a drawer and over the decades that followed the mirror and crest were sent in separate directions).

The oak back board of the mirror appears original and the plate itself is in fine condition with a chamfered bevel. The glass is thick and appears to be c. 1850 with a nice soft hue to and no areas of degradation or noticeable marks. The plate reflects really well yet is obviously antique glass with small ripples and a deep reflection.

A lovely example in showroom condition and ready to hang.