Physical Qualities
Silver on copper alloy, mirrored glass
, 25 x 19 x 1 1/2 in. (63.5 x 48.3 x 3.8 cm)
Credit Line
Young Friends of the American Wing Fund
Object Number
1988.202
In October 1887, Tomey patented his design, replete with soaring swallows amidst flowers and foliage. Superbly crafted and fully documented, this looking glass with its original beveled mirror still intact reflects Anglo-Japonesque aesthetic movement taste at the highest level. The manufacturer, Armington Art Metal Company, specialized in metal plating and advertised architectural decoration and ornaments for furniture. Its 1885 ad ended by assuring customers that the company was "Connected by Telephone," a most forward-looking convenience popular only after the American centennial in 1876.
Inscribed: None.
Markings: Stamped on edge of silver plate frame: "Design Patented Oct 11 1887" Stamped into the black painted back plate holding the original mirror - "Copyright 1887 by Wm H. Tomey, Armington Art Metal Co."
On View at the BMA
