However, on closer inspection, you can see that there’s a little brass latch to the right of the painting. Unhook the latch and you reveal a mirror. But, not just a mirror. There’s another painting. This time, we have waves breaking against a rocky shore. Little figures scurry into a typically English cottage nestled into the crags.
But, that isn’t all. Behind that painting is another mirror, and, on its reverse, still another mirror. Opening into a trifold, you now have a three-way mirror to allow the user to see all sides of his face as he shaves.
A very clever design, mirrors such as this would have adorned a gentleman’s room and provided a necessary service while hiding away something as commonplace as a shaving mirror. This is an object that speaks volumes about Victorian ingenuity, mastery of design and functionality. Even the simplest of objects were elevated to new levels of artistry.
4 comments:
Isn't that a cool little piece! It may not be shower-proof but it surely shows how much care, thought and design can go into the simplest things.
Thanks, Dashwood. No, this wouldn't be good to shave in the shower. Definitely not, shatter-proof. But, a lot more attractive.
I love this mirror! Is it in your personal collection, or is it available for purchase?
Kind regards,
Diane
Thank you, Diane. It is in my private collection and not for purchase. I'm sure you can find a similar one somewhere. Keep looking!
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