Napoleon III French Marquetry Tabletop Mirror Circa 1880 - 20" x 17¼"

This exquisite Napoleon III mirror, dating to around 1880, is a superb example of late 19th-century French craftsmanship. Its distinctive silhouette features a gently arched top with sweeping curves that flow into shaped corners at the base, giving it an elegant and somewhat theatrical presence. The frame is richly decorated with intricate floral marquetry inlays, executed in contrasting fruitwoods that stand out beautifully against the ebonized ground. Delicate flowers meticulously arranged along the contours of the frame, highlighting its sinuous outline and enhancing its decorative impact.

The original mercury glass is still intact, showing light signs of age such as minor foxing that only add to the mirror’s historical charm. While elegant and finely detailed, this mirror also offers a rare practicality: built for tabletop use, it is ideal on a vanity or dressing table, but can can just as easily be hung, allowing it to adapt effortlessly to different interior settings. Whether displayed in a boudoir, on a console, or set atop a chest of drawers, this mirror brings an air of quiet luxury and feminine grace. Its rich tones and intricate craftsmanship make it a striking focal point, especially in eclectic or classically styled spaces where texture and detail are celebrated.