A very pretty wall mirror of rare small proportions, in elegant giltwood frame ornamented with exquisitely carved scallop shell. By William Hollingsworth of Hull, Yorkshire. English, circa 1826-31.

Why we like it

We love its original, untouched condition, with its speckled mercury plate and the softened look of the gilding, as well as the wonderfully sculptural, exquisitely carved scallop shell ornament to the top that is alluding to Venus, but also a traditional Christian symbol. The original maker's label on the reverse adds a personal touch, an extremely rare occasion in English furniture.

Maker

Hollingsworth, William, Hull, Yorks., carver, gilder, lookingglass manufacturer (1826–34). Trading at 2 Queen St, 1826– 31, and 27 Silver St in 1834 as recorded in the Dictionary of English Furniture Makers 1660-1840. Originally published by W.S. Maney and Son Limited, Leeds, 1986.

Dimensions

Height: 31 in / 79 cm
Width: 23.25 in / 59 cm
Depth 4 in / 10 cm