Although this superb looking glass has a history of American ownership, like the great majority of similar examples which graced Colonial houses, it was made in England. Because of the expense and specialized nature of the craft, few, if any, glasses of this size were made in pre-Revolutionary America.

This particular pattern of looking glass was apparently a popular one among persons of wealth in the colonies, for several similar examples are known. With its intricately carved crest, applied gilded ornaments, shaped upper molding, and elaborate carved and gilded side pieces, it reflects the best of mid-18th-century design.

Adapted from

DMA unpublished material.