Design for a Mirror over a Mantel 1840 - 1899

This anonymous design for a mirror over a mantelpiece, dated between 1840 and 1899, demonstrates the intricate craftsmanship of the period. The design features a mirror flanked by two decorative side panels, all framed in a black-and-gold finish. The top of the mirror is adorned with floral motifs and small birds, adding a touch of nature to the elegant design. Currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, this piece provides insight into the decorative styles favored in the Victorian era, particularly the integration of natural elements into interior design.