Mirror

Date1865

Mediumwood

Dimensions44 3/8 × 28 1/8 × 1 1/16 in. (112.7 × 71.4 × 2.7 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Mr. David Joe Lopez Jr.

Object numberPC1981.61.7.D

DescriptionThis mirror is rectangular and features a dark-colored, wooden frame. The surface of the wooden frame is visibly textured and appears to include many thin and small vertical lines and a mesh of slightly different shades of brown. Various scratches and small chippings are visible around the frame's perimeter. Observing the back side of the mirror, a slightly lighter brown panel is visible, and includes small nails along the perimeter, likely securing the wooden frame to the mirror portion of the object. Although this mirror holds Mexican origins, upon analysis of the design, an influence of the Biedermeier style is evident. Characterized by construction with local wood materials, as opposed to focusing on embellishments, simplicity through clean lines, and an emphasis on balance and functionality, the central European Biedermeier movement played a significant role in influencing furniture design during the mid nineteenth century. This mirrors and other similar to it may have likely been utilized in homes and public spaces alike due to its focus on widespread functionality and practical design.

On View

Not on view

Terms