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See more objects with the tag display, revival, ornate, foliate, toilette, grooming.

Object Timeline

-0001

1992

  • We acquired this object.

2004

2015

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2024

  • You found it!

Hand Mirror (probably England)

This is a Hand mirror. It is dated Second half 19th century and we acquired it in 1992. Its medium is molded vulcanized rubber, mirrored glass, gilt metal. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

The molded Renaissance-style ornament of this gutta percha mirror is especially crisp and refined in character. Gutta percha is a natural plastic, made from an East Indian tree resin. Introduced into Europe in the 1820s, it became popular for use in molded furniture elements and small items during the last half of the 19th century. Because of its tendency to become brittle over time, it rarely survives in as good condition as in this piece.

This object was donated by Unknown. It is credited Gift of Anonymous Donor.

  • Scarsdale Side Chair
  • walnut and beechwood, gilt pewter, gilt and reverse-painted glass (verre....
  • Bequest of Mrs. John Innes Kane.
  • 1926-22-58

Our curators have highlighted 3 objects that are related to this one.

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 28.6 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm (11 1/4 x 4 x 1 in.)

Cite this object as

Hand Mirror (probably England); molded vulcanized rubber, mirrored glass, gilt metal; H x W x D: 28.6 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm (11 1/4 x 4 x 1 in.); Gift of Anonymous Donor; 1992-60-1

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibitions PlasticsThom Browne Selects and Faster, Cheaper, Newer, More: The Revolutions of 1848.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18640775/ |title=Hand Mirror (probably England) |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=26 April 2024 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>