Mirror with Raised-Work Embroidery

CultureEnglish
Titles
  • Mirror with Raised-Work Embroidery
Datemid- 17th–17th century
Made inEngland
MediumBeads, metallic purl, lace, silk, linen, wood, and mirror glass
Dimensions26 1/2 × 22 5/8 in. (67.3 × 57.5 cm)
Credit LineThe Bayou Bend Collection, gift of Miss Ima Hogg
Object numberB.57.96
Non exposé

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Department
Bayou Bend
Object Type
DescriptionThe imagery appears to be the four elements: earth, air, water and fire. At the top of the mirror a woman is seated with a bird on her hand, surrounded by clouds. At the bottom of the mirror is another seated woman, with a trident in one hand and a fish in the other. Next to her is a fountain.  These two images probably represent air and water. There are standing women on either long side of the mirror glass, with one holding sheaves of wheat, probably representing earth. The standing woman on the left presents a mystery, as it was not immediately obvious what object she was holding. The figure looks like it could be holding a torch to represent fire.
Provenance[Ginsburg & Levy, New York]; purchased by Miss Ima Hogg, 1957; given to MFAH.
Exhibition History

Inscriptions, Signatures and Marks
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[no marks]

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