A DUTCH BAROQUE MAGIC PROJECTION DEVICE (TOVERSPIEGEL), MID-18TH CENTURY

Property from the Estate of Jhr. Ir. G.C. (Gijs) Six van Wimmenum (1892-1975)

A DUTCH BAROQUE MAGIC PROJECTION DEVICE (TOVERSPIEGEL), MID-18TH CENTURY

in the shape of a gilt-bronze mounted burr walnut bombé commode, veneered on oak, the hinged top folding outwards, enclosing an ebonised interior with a sliding panel at the back incorporating a large concave mirror and two further sliding panels at the sides, so creating a 'theater' within an object could be placed which would be projected in the room, or on another surface, eventually also through another mirror, when illuminated
79cm. high, 89.5cm. wide, 67cm. deep; 2ft. 7⅛in., 2ft. 11¼in., 2ft. 2¼in.
mirror: 55cm. diameter; 1ft. 9⅝in.

Condition Report:
In overall good condition. The veneer surface overall with minor old marks, chipping and scratches consistent with age and use. The mounts with slight rubbing and tarnishing, as to be expected. The front right foot as well as the front left foot with two detached mouldings (which would benefit from being re-attached) and one missing moulding. The mirror plate in good condition, with minor foxing, and would benefit from a gentle clean according to taste. Some cracks to the frame around the mirror, probably as a result of the weight of the mirror. Three keys. An unusual piece.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Provenance:
By repute Bartholomeus Weddik Wendel (1746 - 1825), who was a member of the Physics Department of Felix Meritis in Amsterdam;

Margaretha Johanna Weddik Wendel (1786 - 1817), married to Hieronymus Nicolaas Baron van Slingelandt (1787 - 1844);

Hieronyma Maria Antonia Fortunata Baronesse van Slingelandt (1814 - 1875), married to Jhr Jacob Pieter Teding van Berkhout (1810 - 1892);

Jkvr Catharina IsabellaTeding van Berkhout (1837 - 1886), married to Jean Antoine Corneille Bosch Reitz;

Sigisbert Chrétien Bosch Reitz (1860 -1938);

his godson Jhr Gijsbert Christiaan Six van Wimmenum (1892 - 1975);

Thence by descent