A rare Flemish carved walnut frame with bronze medallion, Antwerp Second half 16th century

the rectangular mirror plate within a scrolling cartouche with floral and fruit swags carved in high relief, surmounted by a seated figure of Charity, flanked by the figures of Faith and Hope, above a bronze medallion depicting the Sacrifice of Abraham

Collection Ch. Franchomme, Bruxelles

L'exposition d'Art Flamand ancien, Antwerp, 1930, no. 198.

Exhibition catalogue, Trésor de l'Art Flamand du moyen âge au XVIII^me siècle, vol. 2, 1932, no. 198.

In overall reasonably good condition. With the inevitable dents, marks and scratches due to use and age. The top, centre left and right ornaments lacking. Traces of old woodworm. The mirror of later date. The festoons with restorations. Overall with minor restorations to the carvings. One shrinking crack to the lower left corner of the mirror frame. The bronze medallion in good condition. Very attractive and recomendable piece.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The fine carved strapwork to this mirror, a product of Flemish mannerism, owes its inspiration to the designs of the cartouches by Hans Vredeman de Vries (Libellus Utilissimus, Antwerp, 1555) and Antwerp goldsmiths of this period; note in particular the work of the sculptors Cornelis Floris, Erasmus Hornick and the later work of Adriaen Collaert, see J.F. Hayward, Virtuoso Goldsmiths and the Triumph of Mannerism 1540-1620, London, 1967, figs 195-203.

A comperable mirror sold at Sotheby's London, December 16, 1998, lot 40.

A very similary bronze medaillion can be found in the Louvre, inv.no. OA9193, as circle of the Master H.G., Nuremberg, before 1565.