18th Century, Pair Of Italian Neoclassical Carved And Gilded Wood Mirrors

18th Century, Pair of italian neoclassical carved and gilded wood mirrors
Size H 70 x W maximum 50 x W 43.5 frame x D 3

The pair of delightful mirrors was made in south of Italy (Sicily) in the Neoclassical period, towards the end of the 18th century. They are composed of a box frame, in carved wood, divided into three sections. The outer part has a fretwork with foliate motif while the inner part has a geometric decoration. The central section consists of glass inserts painted from the inside, simulating marble.
The frame is straight below from two feet to vegetal volutes while the cimasa has a central element, typical neoclassical taste, composed of leaf patterns from which depart symmetrically two leaf volutes.
The wooden frame of this elegant mirror has a gilding of meccata silver leaf. The mecca is a type of gilt varnish on silver leaf for it to take on the appearance and preciousness of the gold leaf. The mecca is a varnish from the ancient recipe that was jealously guarded in the workshops. It includes the use of sandracca gum and gutta gum in alcohol, dragon blood, and other ingredients that in mixture contribute to the different chromatic elements of the mecca.
The pair of mirrors is characterized by the elegance of the neoclassical style, with a compositional taste particularly suitable both in environments with antique and modern furnishings. Their small size allows you to easily insert them in your living room, entrance or studio, where they will give a lot of reflected light both from the mirror and from the preciousness of the wood finish.
In a good state of conservation.