Images(6)

Travel looking glass

Date1834-1849

Labeled by Benjamin Louis Lecand

OriginEngland, London

MediumMahogany, silvered glass, brass

DimensionsOH: 10"; OW: 8 1/4"; OD: 1 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1947-318

DescriptionTravel looking glass. Rectangular frame with mitered, molded edge; top edge of frame attached to thin board that slides between glass and frame to cover glass; when top edge pulled upwards, thin board is removed and the looking glass made usable. Printed label on mahogany back of looking glass backboard. Replaced brass hook attached to top, center rear of frame.
Label Text19th century travel or portable mirrors often had a cover for the glass of the mirror. This example has a mahogany panel or board that is attached to the top molding around the glass. When that molding is pulled up, the mirror is revealed. The owner could pack small personal items like this safely to bring with them when they traveled. Some later 19th century examples were produced with a brace on the backboard to allow the mirror to be set on a table for use. This piece has a (replaced) brass hanger attached to to the rear of its frame so it could be hung on a wall for use.
MarkingsPrinted label on back of frame "Bot of Benjn L Lecand/ CARVER & GILDER,/ Picture Frame & Looking Glass Manufactory/ Retail & For Exportation/ 246 TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD." In the scroll at the top left of the label "Houses & Rooms/ Papered in the most/ Modern Style" Additional text below the scroll is not legible.