A FINE GEORGE II CARVED GILTWOOD PIER MIRROR CIRCA 1755

Stair & Co., New York

Minor crack to top left mirror pane as can be seen in the catalogue illustration; the gilding in good condition with areas of dirt; now with some chips, flaking and losses to the gilding especially to the apron; some repaired breaks to extremities of leaf carving of carving beveled mirror glass appears to be original and with very minor pitting and losses to the silvering with areas of crystallization.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Cutting and silvering a large mirror plate of this size was a costly venture in the 18^th century.  Beveling the edge was an even more expensive process and the cost for the mirror plate dwarfed that of the frame so old mirror plates were often re-used because of the expense.  However, the present mirror was obviously made for the frame: the rococo design of the frame follows the beveled edge perfectly.