Italian Rococo Revival Mirror with Exotic Parrot Motif, Circa 1870-1890
This is a hand-carved Italian Rococo Revival mirror, crafted in the late 19th century (circa 1870-1890), likely by a skilled artisan from Florence or Milan, regions renowned for their decorative arts. The mirror features intricate carvings in walnut, a hallmark of fine Italian craftsmanship of the era. Its standout feature is the vibrant painted parrot motif, perched gracefully amidst floral and scrollwork details, showcasing the period’s fascination with nature and exoticism. The piece is in good vintage condition with visible signs of wear consistent with its age. The wood displays a warm patina, and the painted elements have aged naturally, adding character. Some minor repairs and small areas of wear are evident, particularly in the carvings, but they do not detract from its overall beauty or structural integrity. This mirror is a striking decorative piece, reflecting the opulence and artistry of late 19th-century Italy. Perfect for a grand entryway, salon, or bedroom, it serves as both a functional mirror and a conversation-starting work of art.
Height: 59 Inches, Width: 25 Inches, Depth: 6 Inches
Inherited
Yes
Hi Robert,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This is a wonderful mirror; the carved and painted parrot adds tremendously to the already bold statement it makes. It is comparable to those made in Italy in the late 19th Century but was more likely to have been made in the mid 20th Century
Though late 19th Century mirrors bring prices between $1,500 and 2,500 when offered at auction, a mid/late 20th Century example is worth a fraction of that price - more in the range of $500-700.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An Italian Rococo Revival carved and parcel-polychromed walnut pier mirror
circa 1870-1890
Surmounted by a tall complex molded crest centering shell and acanthus details over a shaped frame with painted parrot sitting on a top branch, over an outscrolling base with acanthus scrolls with pendant drops. Unsigned.
59 Inches high, 25 inches wide, 6 inches deep
CONDITION: This mirror appears to be in generally very good condition with minor wear commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$500-700*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
Hi Delia,
I also uploaded all the pics to a folder in my google drive that I have made accesible to you. Here is the link.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WVhnWXLkuuGCJG2_nHCCzxxk29hRirVp?usp=sharing
Robert
Thanks for the Google drive link; the appraisal is now finished.
Have a great weekend,
Delia
Delia,
thank you for the report. I took the mirror to a local antique store that does free verbal appraisals yesterday. The person who checked out the mirror concluded it was mid century 1950s and was worth $500. could this be more likely than the info I have?
Hi Robert,
Thanks for the update. There's no question that a hands-on inspection will unearth more information than photos (it's why we say "subject to examination" in our appraisals. I've taken a second look at your photos and concluded they are probably right. I've updated the appraisal to be more in line with this hand-on opinion.
Delia
Hi Delia, I sent the pictures to Maybelle [email protected] yesterday.
Do you need anything else?
Robert