A Regency period convex mirror in the manner of Thomas Fentham

A fine Regency period giltwood convex mirror of good scale, in the manner of Thomas Fentham, an ebonised eagle atop a Greek effigy surrounded by a stylised Greek key motif, flanked by carved acanthus sprays, with an ebonised and giltwood frame decorated with large spaced beads and projecting candle sconces with sphinx heads and gilt bronze nozzles, a classical carved and ebonised lion's head with further carved acanthus decoration and tassle below.

Thomas Fentham was a prominent London firm specialising in carving, gilding, glass grinding, and the manufacture of picture frames and looking glasses, and paticularly in convex examples with carved ebonised eagles and girandole arms decorated with Egyptian motifs.

Founded by Thomas Fentham, the firm operated from various addresses along the Strand in London between 1774 and 1825. It was known for producing Neo-classical and Gothic Revival mirrors, gilded frames, girandoles, and Venetian window blinds, often with elaborate carved ornamentation. Fentham's trade cards advertised a wide range of decorative items, and his work was commissioned by notable clients including Lady Heathcote, Charles Towneley, and the 3rd Earl of Egremont.

For comparable convex mirrors to that offered here see, C.Gilbert, Marked London Furniture, 1700-1840, Leeds 1996, pp.204-205.