Illus. 380.—Girandole, 1770-1780.
“A circular convex glass in a gilt frame” is shown in Illustration [380]. Such glasses were advertised as “mirrors,” in distinction from the looking-glasses which were in ordinary use, and they were sold in pairs, for sconces, the convex or occasionally concave glass precluding the possibility of its use for a literal looking-glass, as any person will agree who has caught in one a glimpse of a distorted reflection of face or figure.
These mirrors were fashionable during the last quarter of the eighteenth century, and were made in various sizes, from twelve inches in diameter to three feet. The eagle formed the most popular ornament for the top, but many were made with a winged horse, or a sort of dragon, instead of the eagle. These mirrors were called girandoles, like others with branches for candles. The girandole in Illustration [380] is owned by the Albany Historical Society.
Illus. 381.—Looking-glass, 1780.
The looking-glass in Illustration [381] belongs to the writer, and is in the same style as the glass at the head of Chapter IV, which is described upon page [384].
Illus. 382.—Looking-glass,
1790.
The garlands upon this frame are carved in fruit, grapes and plums with leaves, instead of the laurel which is generally the design, and the medallion above the frame has a classic head in profile, and is surmounted by a ribbon bow-knot of three loops. The glass is of quite a large size.