Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modern Style Oval Brutalist Sunburst Mirror

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This striking oval wall mirror features a dramatic, radiating frame composed of varying lengths of silver-toned metal rods. Its design is a direct nod to the bold, sculptural Brutalist movement of the 1960s and 1970s, which celebrated raw textures and industrial materials. The layered, textured rods create a dynamic play of light and shadow, transforming a functional object into a piece of dimensional wall art.

Story

In the 1960s, artists rebelled against sleek, polished surfaces by welding raw, jagged metal into dramatic sculptures. This mirror captures that rebellious energy, turning industrial-style rods into a shimmering halo of light.

Maker / Origin

While the specific maker of this piece is unidentified, it is heavily inspired by the work of legendary metal sculptors like Curtis Jeré (a joint pseudonym for Jerry Fels and Curtis Freiler). During the mid-to-late 20th century, their studio popularized vibrant, hand-welded metal wall sculptures and mirrors, bringing gallery-level art into the modern home.

Condition & Value

The mirror plate appears clear and free of major desilvering or scratches. The metal rods show a consistent finish with intentional dark antiquing, though some light dust accumulation is present in the crevices. Excellent structural condition with no visibly bent or missing rods will preserve its maximum value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.