Mirror 1705 - 1715

This baroque mirror was made by Johann Valentin Gevers, a German artist, around the late 17th or early 18th century. As one approaches it, we see an intricate assemblage of glass, giltwood, and mirrored surfaces designed to reflect not just the viewer's image, but also the wealth and status of its owner. In the historical context of the European courts, such an object was not merely decorative. Mirrors held symbolic power, reflecting both personal identity and societal roles. The etching at the top, possibly a monarch, suggests the mirror may have also served as a means to align the owner with royalty. During this period, reflections were carefully curated, embodying the performative nature of identity within courtly life. The mirror's design speaks to the social hierarchies of the era, crafted for those privileged enough to afford such luxury. By gazing into this mirror, we can reflect on how historical artifacts shape our understanding of identity.