Hello -

Somethings pop out and makes me stop and look twice. This mid-19th century giltwood pier and overmantel mirror by John Westley of Birmingham, dating to around 1860, was one of those discoveries.

What particularly caught my attention was the extraordinary carved wooden decoration. Deeply carved flowers and overlapping foliage rise from the lower terminals, contrasting beautifully with the restrained classical guilloche border and broad architectural frame above. Look closer and the story becomes even more interesting: it retains its wonderfully aged original arched mirror plate, believed to be mercury-backed, together with its historic boarded back and surviving John Westley trade label from 6 New Street, Birmingham.

Labelled examples associated with Westley appear only infrequently, and finding a mirror of this scale, originality and character makes this a particularly unusual survivor.

View the extraordinary carved wooden decoration

A rare and remarkably well-preserved mid-19th century giltwood pier and overmantel mirror by John Westley, c.1860, retaining its original arched mirror plate, richly carved giltwood frame, historic boarded back and surviving trade label for his Birmingham furnishing establishment.

From the Campbell Vintage Journal

What Does a Victorian Trade Label Reveal?

John Westley of Birmingham: A Rare Mid-19th Century Giltwood Pier & Overmantel Mirror

A surviving trade label led us beyond the mirror itself and into the world of John Westley, Cabinet Maker, Upholsterer & Carpet Factor of 6 New Street, Birmingham. We look more closely at the carved wooden ornament, classical guilloche border, original aged glass and what the words “FROM JOHN WESTLEY” may reveal about the Victorian furnishing trade.

Explore The History →

For me, it is the carving that makes this one so memorable — the closer you look, the more there is to appreciate.

If you'd like to discuss the mirror or any of the other pieces, or need further details on dimensions, condition or delivery, simply reply to this email and I'll be happy to help.

Have a lovely weekend,

Mark

© Campbell Vintage

Vintage and antique furniture, objects selected for material integrity, craftsmanship and enduring design.

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