English Witch Mirror

Convex mirror, called "witch's mirror" in wood painted in burgundy and gold colors. Good general condition, some slight gaps on the frame. The convex mirror appeared around the sixteenth century in northern europe. It was particularly found in flemish paintings. It was first called a "banker's mirror" because it allowed them to monitor an entire room while sitting at their desks. It was then adopted by merchants as a true "third eye" to monitor their shop, before making its way into bourgeois interiors. At home, it was called "witch mirror" or "witch's eye" (baroque or not) because it was attributed magical powers. Diameter 30cm. Handmade by à.w. Annetts and sons ltd a sutton, england.