News

Jan 07, 2024

This Old Thing: This mirror reflects one’s psyche

Q. Would you be able to provide an estimate of my swing mirror? It measures 178 centimetres tall and 74 cm wide (70 by 29 inches). cheval_mirror1 Cheval mirror Q. Would you be able to provide an

Q. Would you be able to provide an estimate of my swing mirror? It measures 178 centimetres tall and 74 cm wide (70 by 29 inches).

cheval_mirror1

Cheval mirror

Q. Would you be able to provide an estimate of my swing mirror? It measures 178 centimetres tall and 74 cm wide (70 by 29 inches).

Lynda, Wakefield, Que.

A. Your mirror is known as a cheval dressing glass, but in the late 1700s it was known as a “psyché,” where one’s image alluded to the human soul, mind and spirit. They started to become popular at this time — appearing in the “Drawing Book” of famous English cabinetmaker Thomas Sheraton. This is a Rococo Revival example dating to circa 1850. The carved shells, acanthus leaves and scrolls are diagnostic. It is particularly eye-catching with the mirror shape conforming to the supporting arms. It could be British- or North American-made. The wood is either mahogany or walnut under the heavily “alligatored” varnish and it would glow after refinishing, as would its value. As it stands, it is worth $750. Refinished, it will be $1,500.

Q. This 1953 Coronation pocket knife was among a group of items I bought 25 years ago. It is 7.6 cm long (3 inches). I am guessing there are not too many of these floating around anymore.

Dennis, Ottawa

A. Many different Coronation items were made, which leaves one wondering why a folding knife would be one. Historically, you actually have a pen knife — the name coming from the Latin “penna,” meaning feather. Quills, usually from a goose, were the main form of writing instruments from the Middle Ages — the tips sharpened with a knife. The folding version of a pen knife was invented by the middle of the 18th century, and this might be one reason for making this commemorative, given the long history of the monarchy. Of course, the image of Queen Elizabeth is welcome anywhere and this item was made by Richards of Sheffield, England — a company known for making folding knives. Your condition is good, where many have worn through the plastic-covered graphics. They can be found online and seem to command an average of $65.

Q. My wife inherited this oil painting on canvas about 25 years ago from a relative in Montreal. It is signed Alfred Fredericks, 1864, and measures 135 high by 94 cm wide (53 by 37 inches), not counting the frame. We found information that the artist was an illustrator associated with New York, born in England, and was one of the founders of the American Watercolor Society. We were wondering if you could provide information on its history and value.

Bob, Ottawa

A. There is not a great deal of information on this talented American artist (1835-1926). Your findings seem fairly sound for what little information is substantiated, but I could not verify that he was born in England. He was active in the United States from 1853 to 1907 and is best known for watercolours. Subjects range from ducks flying from a pond, rich still life groupings, architectural and historical scenes — many based on the works of William Shakespeare, as your piece depicting aristocrats in a street setting seems likely to have been. Sales records are scarce but do suggest your interesting piece is worth $850.

John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the ‘Contact John’ page at www.johnsewellantiques.ca. Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. (Only email submissions are accepted.) *Appraisal values are estimates only.*

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