Lot 441: English Barbola Style Oval Floral Decorated Vanity Mirror
An oval vanity or dressing table mirror in the Barbola style, likely of English origin, dating to the early to mid-20th century. The mirror features a bevelled glass plate secured to its backing by four brass-toned metal clips. It is decorated with an applied three-dimensional spray of roses and daisies, hand-painted in a multi-coloured palette. This floral ornament is fashioned from a moulded gesso or paste material, which is the defining characteristic of Barbola ware. The mirror was originally intended for tabletop use as part of a dressing suite.
Condition report:
The mirror glass is in poor condition, exhibiting heavy foxing, significant silvering loss, and dark cloudy patches across the majority of the surface. There is visible surface grime and adhesive residue from contemporary auction labels. The Barbola floral decoration remains largely complete, showing only minor surface wear and small losses to the polychrome paint consistent with its age.
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