Gilt Girandole Mirror, English 19th Century

• Gesso - A mixture of plaster of Paris and gypsum mixed with water and then applied to the carved wooden frames of mirrors and picture frames as a base for applying gold leaf. After numerous coats of gesso have been applied, allowed to dry and then sanded a coat of "bole", a usually red coloured mixture of clay and glue is brushed on and allowed to dry, after which the gold leaf is applied. In painting, gesso is also used to prime a canvas prior to applying paint.
• Girandole -  A girandole is a type of candle holder or candelabra that features several branches or arms for holding candles. It is often used as a decorative piece and can range in design from simple and functional to highly ornate and elaborate. Girandoles can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, glass, ceramic and crystal, and can be found in a range of sizes, from tabletop models to large floor-standing pieces, as well as sidelights on wall mirrors and accessories in a clock set.
• Girandole - An ornate candle sconce, usually with several lights and combined with an ornate mirror to reflect the light, made to be attached to the wall. Sometimes also used to refer to a mirror with sconces.
  
  They reached their height of their popularity in England and France in the second half of the 18th century,

This item has been included into following indexes:

• mirrors, wall, period, age or style
  • French 642
  • Louis style 361
  • with candle holders (girandole) 45