19th Century French Faux Bamboo Cheval Mirror in Elm - Large Scale, Original Plate c.1880

A striking 19th Century French faux bamboo cheval mirror in turned elm with original mirror plate and warm patina At a Glance - Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility: • Origin: France • Date: Late 19th Century - circa 1880 • Material: Solid elm, turned and stained to simulate bamboo • Design: Cheval (free-standing, pivoting) full-length mirror • Mirror Plate: Original mirror plate with softly curved top corners • Details: Turned finials, spindles, stretchers, and brass acorn swivel finials • Base: Swept legs terminating in original castors for ease of movement • Back: Panelled for protection and structural stability • Finish: Rich, warm patina developed naturally over time • Proportions: Tall, elegant form with excellent visual presence • Construction: Traditional late 19th-century craftsmanship • Delivery is not included - please use the Request Delivery Quote feature located beside the ‘Add to Basket’ tab before completing your order • Desirability:-   • A high-quality and visually impressive example of 19th-century French faux bamboo furniture   • The bamboo aesthetic introduces texture, warmth and an exotic note to interiors   • Unusually large in scale and rare to find retaining its original mirror plate   • Combines elegance and practicality for bedrooms, dressing rooms or hallways   • Equally at home in classic, eclectic, coastal or contemporary interiors Heritage, History & Craftsmanship:- This striking late 19th Century French faux bamboo cheval mirror is beautifully crafted in solid elm, expertly turned and stained to convincingly emulate natural bamboo. Faux bamboo furniture enjoyed immense popularity in France during the latter decades of the 19th century, reflecting a wider European fascination with Asian design, Japonisme and the decorative potential of exotic materials. Skilled cabinetmakers employed hardwoods such as elm to achieve the bamboo effect, allowing for greater durability while retaining the lightness and rhythm of the style. The mirror retains its original plate, distinguished by gently curved top corners that soften the overall silhouette and add to its authenticity. Mounted within a pivoting cheval frame, the mirror can be adjusted easily via brass acorn finials, combining everyday practicality with decorative refinement. Turned spindles, stretchers and finials enrich the structure, while the swept legs and original castors lend elegance and mobility. Cheval mirrors were essential furnishings in well-appointed late 19th-century homes, particularly within bedrooms and dressing rooms, where their full-length reflection and adjustable angle offered both convenience and visual presence. This example stands out for its generous proportions, quality of construction and beautifully matured patina - a refined and evocative piece that balances craftsmanship, fashion and function with ease. Styling Suggestions:- • Position in a bedroom or dressing room where its full height and reflective surface can be fully appreciated • Use in a hallway or landing to introduce light, depth and a sense of architectural elegance • Pair with rattan, cane, painted furniture or linen textures for a relaxed, coastal or eclectic scheme • Contrast beautifully with dark walls or patterned wallpapers to highlight its warm faux bamboo tones • Ideal for period interiors seeking a decorative accent with practical function • Works equally well as a statement piece in contemporary spaces craving texture and character Explore Every Facet:- Our high-resolution photographs let you examine this piece in detail, exactly as you would in the showroom. These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. Study the turned faux bamboo detailing, original mirror plate, brass swivel finials, swept legs and the rich, time-softened patina - details that reward close inspection and confirm the quality of its late 19th-century craftsmanship Sustainable Style:- Thank you for considering this 19th-century French faux bamboo cheval mirror - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures. This mirror exemplifies the longevity and resourcefulness of traditional craftsmanship. Its continued use honours time-tested techniques, preserves quality materials, and celebrates decorative artistry that has already served for generations. Choosing antiques reduces waste, supports skilled restoration, and brings depth, individuality and continuity to modern interiors. Purchase with Confidence:- White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Each item is described and photographed with care, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and successful business serving both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our shop at 53 High Street, Arundel, and our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections first-hand, explore the stories behind each antique, and appreciate these timeless treasures in person.