Girandole

Unknown

1817 · Gilded gesso, mirror glass with white pine · The American Wing

This girandole mirror and its mate (1974.363.2) were made for the Albany townhouse of Stephen Van Rensselaer IV (1786–1868). Popular during the Federal period, girandole mirrors were often surmounted by eagle finials. Their name derives from the candle arms that extend from the frame, allowing the candlelight to reflect off the convex mirror and illuminate an entire room.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1817

Medium

Gilded gesso, mirror glass with white pine

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Frederick S. Moseley Jr., 1974