A Regency carved and gilded wood convex mirror of particularly large size, the upper part with rock work surmounted by a well carved eagle with outstretched wings holding a snake. The original mirror plate surrounded by ebonised stars and balls and a guilloche flanked by double candle branches: the lower part carved stylised foliage.

This example is distinguished by its exceptionally large size and boldly carved eagle cresting. Eagles were common decorative elements on Regency mirrors a highly appropriate iconography for the themes of power, victory and maritime prowess so prevalent during the Napoleonic wars of the early 19^th century.  The mirror retains its original gilding, this is particularly rare for a convex mirror of this period, and this soft and warm gilding is a wonderful contrast to the size and depictions.

The motif of the eagle and serpent bears resemblance to Aesop’s ( An educated ancient Greek slave) famous fable which was popular at the time concluding in ‘ An act of kindness is will repaid’.  The cabinet maker Thomas Johnson was heavily inspired by Aesop’s stories and used them throughout his work.