A Convex Mirror Restoration

This winter project for a client in Maine is probably late 19th/early 20th century. Allover gilded with areas of burnished and matte gilding (or bronze powder gilding). There are painted bands at mirror edge (simulating an ebony liner).

As delivered

These mirrors are a classic style, and are always popular, even when out of period. Due to their fragile nature and construction, they often have damage. Any time gesso is applied to a curved surface, age shrinkage and warping tend to have an exaggerated effect. In this case, there were numerous areas of gesso loss: a 3-4" section of top convex band, and areas at outer edges, plus losses on large fruit cornucopia ornaments. The spherules were almost all badly compromised. The bottom pendant ornament was missing approximately 2-3 inches at left side and bottom center leaf.

Missing section of raised band

Edge losses

Cracking and spherule condition

Wishing to avoid a full re-gilding, some areas of damage were stabilized as much as possible, but not stripped. Gesso applied where missing, over new carving on bottom pendant, and on spherules which needed to be stripped and completely redone.

Gesso work

Gilding begins

More gilding

Gilding work done

After distressing/toning, the mirror retains a worn appearance, and if anything, look older than its actual date. More reliable hanging hardware was installed, along with additional bracing for basket ornament.

Finally, a nice looking mirror ready for someone's home.