19th C French Napoleon III Water‑Gilded Oval Mirror, Beaded Moulding & Crest
A statement of French elegance, richly gilded and steeped in history
Date: 19th century, Napoleon III period
Origin: France
Finish: Water‑gilded with a warm, aged patina
Frame: Oval with beaded moulding
Top: Arched with decorative crest
Scale: Large; a striking statement piece
Condition: Minor historic repairs, overall good condition
Delivery: Not included - please use the Request Delivery Quote feature located next to the ‘Add to Basket’ tab before completing your order
Heritage, Craftsmanship & Authentic Character
This imposing 19th‑century French mirror captures the grandeur of the Napoleon III era. The oval frame, enriched with fine beaded moulding, rises to a crest of elegant carving, all finished in lustrous water gilding. Time has softened its brilliance to a warm, inviting patina, a testament to both age and artistry. Minor historic repairs blend discreetly into the whole, preserving its presence and integrity.
Visual Details
Our high‑resolution photographs invite you to examine the subtle depth of the gilded finish, the precision of the detail of the beaded moulding, and the delicate interplay of light across the curved frame. Every close‑up forms part of the condition report, giving you complete confidence in what you see.
Styling Suggestions
Commanding in scale, this mirror is ideal for bringing light and stature to a hallway, creating drama above a mantel, or adding layered elegance to a bedroom. Its refined proportions also make it a striking focal point in a dining room or reception space.
Sustainability
Choosing antique mirrors not only brings irreplaceable character to your home, it also supports the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. Pieces like this water‑gilded frame carry the skill of past artisans forward, reducing the need for modern mass‑production. This is both an aesthetic and environmental decision - and an essential act in keeping traditional skills alive. Without demand for restoration and conservation, the master‑craftsmen capable of such work will become increasingly rare.
Purchase with Confidence
Transparent Condition Details: Please examine all photographs carefully for a complete understanding of each item’s condition. These images form a crucial part of our detailed condition report, offering clear insights into the craftsmanship, patina, and quality of this piece.
Trusted Heritage: We are an established and successful business with many happy clients from both trade and private sectors. You are warmly invited to visit our beautiful showroom and shop in West Sussex to experience our collection firsthand.
Delivery: We do not include delivery in our prices, as this depends on factors such as location and access. Options include:
Arrange your own collection from our address
Use the Request Delivery Quote feature on the listing
Email us for combined delivery quotes if purchasing multiple items
Use Proovia Delivery who provide a two‑person service
Export/Worldwide Shipping: Please request a quotation from any of the following, quoting the item link:
Alan Smith Europe: info@alansmitheurope.com
Charlie Godwin: guildford@packsend.co.uk
Neil Curl Transport: neil@neilcurltransport.co.uk
Simon Hall Limited: exportdesk@simonhalllimited.com
measurements
Height:
126 cm
Width:
85 cm
Depth:
7 cm
measurements
declaration
Whites Antiques has clarified that the 19th C French Napoleon III Water‑Gilded Oval Mirror, Beaded Moulding & Crest (LA550532) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being Napoleon III era 1848-1880