Original gilt frame and mirrored glass
Circa 1810
H: 31 ¼”; W: 16 ½”
This elegant tabernacle looking glass with fluted columns and ball drops contains an eglomise portrait of DeWitt Clinton (1769-1828), an influential New York politician in the early 19th century. His political career began as a member of the New York Assembly in 1798, then the New York State Senate (1798-1802). In 1802 he was elected to the U.S. Senate from New York, but he resigned in 1803 and was appointed Mayor of New York (1803-1807; 1808-1810; 1811-1815). In 1812, Clinton was the Republican Party candidate in the presidential election, and in a close race he was defeated by James Madison. From 1817-1822 and 1825-1828 Clinton served as Governor of New York.
Clinton is often referred to as the “Father of the Erie Canal” for his strong advocacy of and political support for the establishment of a canal through upstate New York connecting the east with the Midwest. The canal opened in 1825 and is considered Clinton’s primary legacy.
The source for this image may have been the profile portrait of Clinton by St. Memin (1770-1852) engraved in 1796.
The looking glass survives in excellent condition with its original glass, backing boards and an undisturbed gilt surface.
sold.
