Mirrors Of The Month - March 2024

Welcome back to The Fold Antiques for our latest Mirrors Of The Month bulletin: This time we're highlighting some of our exquisite selection of Art Nouveau mirrors which come in a range of elegant and stylish designs.

Art Nouveau arrived in the late 19th century and was a stark change from the traditional concepts that had influenced western art and design up to that point. Characterised by its use of natural forms, flowing lines, and organic shapes, Art Nouveau embraced a philosophy that sought to eradicate the traditional distinctions between fine arts and applied arts.

Aubrey Beardsley - Peacock Skirt - 1893

This beautiful design has stunning, bright, detailed tones with a selection of blues and reds in a Japanese style. 

The design of Peacock Skirt was influenced by James McNeill Whistler’s 1876–77 Peacock Room, which was designed for Frederick Leyland’s house at 49 Princes Gate. It now resides in the Freer Gallery of Art.

Japanese woodblock prints also influenced Beardsley's work, combined with refined curving lines and the forms of the Art Nouveau aesthetic.

The original pen and ink illustration of Peacock Skirt was first reproduced in 1894 for the first English edition of Oscar Wilde’s one-act play, Salome. A copy of the first English edition of Salome was sold for £5040 in August 2023 at Sotheby’s.

Alphonse Mucha - Printemps - 1896

Alphonse Mucha's piece, Printemps is inspired by nature and the different erratic seasons. This is portrayed with vibrant colours and a bold finish, which can be linked to Japanese art.

Alphonse Mucha gained celebrity status through his posters for the unparalleled Sarah Bernhardt, who could be described as The Taylor Swift of her day. A PR juggernaut, Bernhardt knew every trick in the book to keep herself in the public eye. Her and Mucha created the advertising posters for the Lefevre-Utile cookies (known as LU today thanks to Mucha).

Arthur Rackham - Looking Very Undancey Indeed - 1906

A stunning illustration by the artist Arthur Rackham designed for Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens, "Looking Very Undancey Indeed" features stand-out pink and red colours.

This piece depicts a beautiful lady wearing a glamorous outfit and standing thoughtfully underneath a tree. Can you see the hidden owls?

Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens is a novel by J.M. Barrie, illustrated by Arthur Rackham. It was published in late November or early December 1906. It is one of four major literary works by Barrie featuring the widely known literary character he created, Peter Pan.

Susan Obrant - Mood Indigo

This is a fantastic art nouveau portrait that focuses on an elegant lady and shows a selection of stunning colours.

The design on this mirror concentrates the highlights of colour in the flowing hair and really picks out the vibrant skin tone. We really like the intricate detail of the flowers and the basket. The golden shabby chic frame complements this piece beutifully, bringing the picture to life.

Susan Obrant has been producing fine art for over 30 years. Beginning her commercial career whilst still a student at the Parson School of Design, she quickly established an enviable reputation as an excellent illustrator, gathering several prestigious honours.

Susan Obrant was once nominated at the GRAMMY Awards for Best Album cover for The music of Erik Satie: Through A Looking Glass.

Find Out More

Our mirror collection is an exciting representation of the Art Nouveau style. If you are interested in learning more, please take a closer look at our Art Nouveau collections page, where you will find a great selection of designs by many famous artists who were involved in the movement.

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