Dressing table mirror 1887 - 1911

André Aucoc crafted this dressing table mirror with gilt bronze and mother-of-pearl. The first impression is one of reflective symmetry; the mirror’s octagonal shape is echoed in the base, creating a sense of formal balance. This structure of controlled lines and shapes, however, belies a tension inherent in its very function. The mirror, designed to reflect a direct, stable image, instead offers a shifting, mutable reflection of the self. The opulent materials—gilt bronze and mother-of-pearl—further complicate this play of representation. These luxurious materials serve not merely as decoration but also as signifiers of wealth, status, and taste. Ultimately, this mirror functions as more than a simple object of utility. It is an elaborate construction of identity, reflecting not just an image but also a cultural and social world. Its reflective nature invites continuous interpretation, ensuring its relevance across time.