General Lafayette Pewter-Rimmed Portrait Mirror

Engraved by Robert Campbell of Philadelphia, circa 1824–1825

Diameter: 3¼ inches.

A scarce large-format commemorative portrait mirror depicting the Marquis de Lafayette, produced in connection with his celebrated return visit to the United States in 1824–1825. The finely engraved portrait is signed by Robert Campbell of Philadelphia, an engraver documented as active between 1822 and 1831. The image is mounted beneath glass within a circular pewter rim, with an original suspension loop at the top.

A closely related Lafayette portrait mirror, measuring 85 mm, appeared in the distinguished John J. Ford Jr. Collection at Stack’s Bowers Galleries. That example was likewise signed by R. Campbell and identified in the auction catalog as the work of Robert Campbell of Philadelphia. The survival of these closely related examples underscores the importance of this unusual commemorative format and its association with the public enthusiasm surrounding Lafayette’s American tour.

Condition: Very fine, with even overall toning. The original mirror remains excellent.