Lot 262
LARGE VICTORIAN GILTWOOD AND GESSO OVERMANTEL MIRROR
MID 19TH CENTURY
Auction: Day One | Wed 12th Nov at 10am | Lots 1 to 338
Description
the arched mirror plate in a moulded frame surmounted with open scrolling vines, fruiting cornucopia, and dolphins; the back inscribed 'Cicero & C 81 Leith Street Edinbh'
Dimensions
226cm high, 178cm wide
Footnote
Ciceri, Mantica & Torre originated from the earlier firm Ciceri, Pini & Co., Carvers, Gilders and Looking Glass Manufacturers, first recorded in Edinburgh in 1842. By 1853, the business had relocated to 81 Leith Street, advertising an extensive selection of mirrors and pier glasses in richly carved giltwood frames described as “elegant and recherché.” In 1855, Anthony Mantica and P. Della Torre joined from St Catherine Street, and the firm adopted the name Ciceri, Mantica & Torre in 1859. Renowned for holding the largest stock of mirrors in Scotland—all of their own manufacture—the firm also produced console tables, window cornices, picture frames, and various ornamental items. From the early 19th century, Italian craftsmen had established a presence in Edinburgh, particularly at the head of Leith Walk, where many Italian-Scots businesses remain to this day.