Fine Little Painted
Looking Glass (Mirror)

Northeast, ca. 1800-1830.

Original black paint on what appears to be maple and pine. Nicely scrolled stepped crest, retaining its glue blocks, above a molded frame, the corners of the frame joined by “splines” (wedges). Soft surface, desirable minor edge wear with smooth burnishing. The back board sawn, then chamfered, and held by cut nails.

Excellent condition. Overall height just 11 ½ inches, about 7 wide.  

The word "mirror" comes from the Old French word "mirour" and the Latin word "mirare," meaning "to look at" or "to admire." Likely made as a gift when mirror-glass was scarce, perhaps for courting. I always imagine with mirrors who may have looked into it decades, or centuries, ago.