Dear Helaine and Joe: This mirror has been in my family for many generations. In fact, I have family letters referring to it as the "1812 mirror". The piece measures 30 by 14 inches and has minor damage to both the mirror and the scene above. What are its age and value? — H.L., Spokane, Wash.
Dear H.L.: There are mirrors and then there are looking glasses.
In modern parlance, a mirror is a framed piece of glass with a reflective backing on it that produces an image when an object or person is placed in front of it.
In earlier times, however, a "mirror" was a French term used to describe a polished metal plate that was held in the hand to provide a reflection of the person holding it. These polished metal mirrors were the rule until the 16th century, when the Venetians introduced a device that consisted of a piece of glass that was backed with a type of foil.
This contrivance produced a clear reflected image and was held in a frame. They were called "looking glasses" to differentiate them from the metal "mirrors" and according to the letters, inventories, bills and advertisements of the 19 century, this term was in use through the time when H.L.'s piece was made.
This particular looking glass is in the "tabernacle style." The name is derived from one of the meanings of the word "tabernacle" — e.g. a canopied niche used to house a religious picture or icon. The top of this mirror does indeed have an overhang that is very architectural in nature, and it overhangs an almost square section — or niche — that contains a reverse painting on glass of an 1812 period naval battle.
Despite the fact that the image is from the War of 1812, the looking glass itself was probably produced circa 1825 (circa 1825 means it was made around 1825 plus or minus 10 years).
This rectangular two-part looking glass was made in the American Federal period, and has the typical molded and beaded frame with gilt balls under the upper cornice.
H.L. should contact the nearest large museum for help in finding a conservator who will not — repeat NOT — repaint any of the surfaces.
If the glass or "mirror" portion itself has damage on it, do not replace or reglaze it because collectors demand that looking glasses such as this one be as near to original condition as possible. To repaint or reglaze this wonderful old piece would be to devalue it by at least half and maybe more.
Actually, this looking glass appears to be in above average condition, and its insurance replacement value is about $1,800.
Helaine Fendelman is feature editor at Country Living magazine and Joe Rosson writes about antiques at The Knoxville News Sentinel in Tennessee. Questions can by mailed to them at P.O. Box 12208, Knoxville, TN 37912-0208.