French Mid-Century Ceramic and Brass Round Mirror

French Mid-Century Ceramic and Brass Round Mirror

This French Mid-Century ceramic and brass round mirror combines richly coloured studio pottery with the refined detail of a slim brass surround. Measuring just 25 cm in diameter, the mirror has an intimate scale, yet its mottled glaze in warm amber, copper, and deep earthy tones gives it considerable decorative presence.

The circular ceramic frame is finished over a dark ground, creating a layered surface with an organic, almost mineral character. A fine brass band neatly follows the outer edge, adding a subtle metallic accent while providing a crisp contrast to the expressive ceramic glaze.

Mottled Studio-Ceramic Glaze

The richly varied glaze is the defining feature of this small mirror. Warm amber and copper tones mingle with deeper earth colours, producing a surface that changes subtly with the light. The irregularity of the finish enhances the handmade character of the piece rather than appearing overly uniform.

The ceramic body has been carefully formed and finished, while the glaze retains the visual richness associated with French post-war studio pottery. Its tactile appearance rewards close viewing and gives the mirror the character of a small ceramic artwork.

Ceramic and Brass Construction

The combination of fired ceramic and brass creates an appealing dialogue between artisanal and refined materials. The slender brass band frames the ceramic without overpowering it, adding just enough luminosity to emphasize the circular form.

This restrained construction also gives the mirror versatility. It can sit comfortably alongside other natural materials, vintage furnishings, or more contemporary decorative pieces.

French Post-War Decorative Ceramics

The mirror reflects the broader French studio-ceramic tradition of the post-war decades, particularly the experimentation with expressive glazes associated with workshops in southern France and the Vallauris region. During this period, ceramicists explored richly coloured and layered surfaces that blurred the distinction between functional pottery and decorative art.

Rather than relying on elaborate ornament, this mirror derives its appeal from material, colour, and craftsmanship. Its compact proportions make it particularly suitable for an intimate interior setting such as a bathroom, dressing area, bedroom, or entrance hall.

Details

• Type: Round wall mirror
• Style: French Mid-Century / post-war studio ceramic
• Period: Mid-20th century
• Place of origin: France
• Materials: Glazed ceramic, brass, and mirror glass
• Frame: Circular ceramic surround with brass edging
• Glaze: Mottled amber, copper, and deep earth tones over a dark ground
• Character: Artisanal, organic, warm, and decorative
• Condition: Very good vintage condition; glaze intact and brass band bright and even
• Use: Decorative wall mirror for bathroom, bedroom, dressing area, or entrance hall

Dimensions

• Height: 25 cm / 9.8 in
• Width: 25 cm / 9.8 in
• Depth: 2 cm / 0.8 in