Italian Mirror Frame With English Chromolithographic Floral Prints – 02

We kindly suggest reading the entire description, as it provides detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items. The frame enclosing the two prints is quite unique and unusual; it was recently crafted by an experienced master cabinetmaker who has a workshop in one of the coolest neighborhoods of Florence: San Frediano, known for its charming and one-of-a-kind artisan workshops, where everything is handmade. The master craftsman added four shiny mirrors to the sides of the flat part of the frame, tilting them outward, while painting the outer part and the inner edge with gold, creating a bright, elegant, and sophisticated optical effect. The prints are enclosed within the frame by a refined cream-colored mat with a gold border. The prints are original paper artworks, not pages from a book. They were printed in London between 1900 and 1905 using the "chromolithography" technique (from the Greek chromo meaning color, lithos meaning stone and graphia meaning drawing), a method developed in 1837 that involved overlaying images of different colors engraved on separate stones, one for each color. This process allowed for the reproduction of vibrant tones and shades, imitating the colors of tempera paintings. The prints depict two beautiful and significant floral subjects: on the left are leaves and flowers of the Sycamore tree, and on the right is the Double Trumpet Daffodil. The Sycamore is not a flower but a tree, known as the sycamore. It belongs to the Ficus genus (specifically Ficus sycomorus) or refers to a type of maple, Acer pseudoplatanus, also known as the mountain maple. In botanical symbolism, the sycamore represents Protection and stability: As a strong, long-lived tree, it symbolizes security, permanence, and strength. Eternity and regeneration: In many ancient cultures, the sycamore symbolized eternal life and regeneration. The sycamore has strong historical and spiritual significance in many cultures. In ancient Egypt, it was considered a sacred tree, often associated with the goddess Hathor, and believed to provide protection and nourishment in the afterlife. Some sycamores were planted near tombs, as they were thought to represent the continuity of life after death. In the Bible, the sycamore is mentioned several times, with one of the most famous stories involving Zacchaeus, a tax collector who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus as he passed by. In other cultures, such as Greek and Roman, the sycamore tree was valued for its shade and ability to grow in difficult places, symbolizing resilience and strength. Though it does not have a direct meaning in the language of flowers, the sycamore’s role in stories and cultures gives it a profound symbolic value tied to protection, eternal life, and inner strength. The Double Trumpet Daffodil is known as the double-cupped narcissus or double trumpet narcissus. It is a variety of Narcissus, characterized by a larger, often double, central corona (the trumpet-shaped part), giving it a fuller and more striking appearance. The narcissus has several symbolic meanings in the language of flowers, and the double trumpet variety amplifies these meanings due to its elaborate form: Rebirth and new beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, the narcissus represents hope and renewal. Self-esteem and vanity: Like all varieties of narcissus, it is linked to the myth of Narcissus, the youth who fell in love with his own reflection. Vitality and abundance: The double trumpet variety, with its rich and showy blooms, strengthens the symbolism of prosperity and abundance. The narcissus has ancient origins, appearing in various legends and myths, especially in Greek mythology, with the story of Narcissus, the young man who died while gazing at his own reflection, unable to look away. In the place where he died, the flower that now bears his name bloomed, linking the flower with the ideas of vanity and self-reflection. Beyond Greek mythology, the narcissus is celebrated in many other cultures. In China, for example, it is considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, especially during Chinese New Year celebrations, as it blooms during this time. The double trumpet narcissus, with its intricate form, is often used to represent something unique and precious, such as abundant renewal or a positive transformation in life. Our frame, featuring these two flowers, is perfect for easily decorating any room in the home, both for the symbolism behind the prints and for the splash of color they provide. Dimensions: Width 49 cm, Height 35 cm, Depth 3 cm. Each print measures 18x12 cm. For all our shipments, we use special packaging materials (custom-made wooden crates, polystyrene, etc.) to ensure maximum protection and safety of the items.

Condition report:

Good. Wear consistent with age and use. The frame and print are in good condition.