This Atlas-supported 'sphere' mirror, with reeded Etruscan-black ribbon border and gilded frame embellished with a trellised torus-wreath is surmounted by a love-trophy comprised of Venus' entwined dolphins perched amongst bullrushes. Such convex mirrors were much favoured by the architect Sir John Soane and their ability to 'reflect objects in beautiful perspective' was praised by George Smith, whose Collection of Designs for Household Furniture, 1808, pls. 123-6, illustrated two patterns which could be executed in bronze and gold