Doe and Hope

Description

A highly desirable piece of Arts and Crafts period ware, the well patinated and unpolished foliate copper overlay is richly embossed with delicate Geranium floral sprays and leaves. A raised inset border provides balance, with yet a further and more subtle, rimmed border to the plate.

The original oval plate glass has some minor foxing and is in wonderful condition, as is the whole, which remains in a totally original state, making this mirror a fantastic example.

William Morris, the architect of the Arts and Crafts movement, was one of the great pattern designers and his influence can be clearly seen in the nature of the copper work here.

The movement was inspired by his intimate knowledge of natural forms discovered through drawing and stylised through his detailed knowledge of historical styles. In effect, Morris took the natural forms that he found outside in the woods and meadows and used them to decorate the inside of our homes, just as this mirror does today.