Pair of 18th-Century Italian Baroque Devotional Frames – “Cartas de Gloria” with Mercury Glass Mirrors
$1,250.00
Pair of 18th-Century Italian Baroque Devotional Frames – Cartas de Gloria with Mercury Glass Mirrors
We present a rare and refined pair of Italian Baroque frames from the 18th century, originally known as cartas de gloria, later converted into decorative wall mirrors.
Historically, these ornate frames were not designed to hold images or glass, but rather sacred texts—prayers, hymns, litanies or fragments of the Mass—often handwritten or printed, and displayed in private altars, chapels, or devotional spaces.
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Pair of 18th-Century Italian Baroque Devotional Frames – Cartas de Gloria with Mercury Glass Mirrors
We present a rare and refined pair of Italian Baroque frames from the 18th century, originally known as cartas de gloria, later converted into decorative wall mirrors.
Historically, these ornate frames were not designed to hold images or glass, but rather sacred texts—prayers, hymns, litanies or fragments of the Mass—often handwritten or printed, and displayed in private altars, chapels, or devotional spaces.
The transformation of these devotional objects into mirrors likely took place in the 19th century, as liturgical items gradually found new life in secular or decorative contexts. Importantly, the original craftsmanship and ornamental richness of the frames have been preserved, allowing their spiritual and historical character to endure.
Both frames are hand-carved from solid wood and water-gilded with genuine gold leaf over red bole. Their composition is typical of the late Baroque period in Northern Italy, specifically from the Lombard-Venetian school, featuring exuberant scrolls, acanthus leaves, and dynamic floral motifs. The gilding displays an authentic antique patina, with areas of natural wear, free from repainting or modern intervention—hallmarks of genuine age and integrity.
The mirrors themselves are 19th-century silvered mercury glass, exhibiting the desirable “foxing” or blooming effect caused by the natural oxidation of the silver backing over time. Rather than a flaw, this phenomenon adds depth and character, and is a visual confirmation of historical authenticity.
One of the rear panels has been replaced in a later period. This does not affect the structure or visual coherence of the pair.
Features:
- Origin: Italy, Lombard-Venetian school
- Period: c. 1770–1800 (transformed in the 19th century)
- Original use: Cartas de gloria for liturgical texts
- Current use: Decorative wall mirrors
- Materials: Carved wood, water-gilded gold leaf, red bole, original mercury glass
- Condition: Very good structural condition; untouched gilding with age-consistent patina; one replaced back panel
- Notes: Rare to find a matched pair of this devotional typology; historically significant transformation
This set not only brings beauty and sophistication to any interior but also carries cultural and symbolic weight. Their rarity lies not only in their age but in their original liturgical function: few devotional frames of this kind survive today, and even fewer have been preserved with such authenticity after their 19th-century transformation. Ideal for collectors, curators, or interior designers seeking unique historic character and soul.
- Dimensions:
- Width: 9.05 in
- Height: 10.23 in
- Depth: 1.18 in
