The bold pediment frame of this looking glass, inspired by classical and Renaissance architecture, would have made it an impressive addition to the Washingtons' home when it was acquired in the third quarter of the eighteenth century. Large oblong looking glasses such as this were intended to hang between windows in an elegant public space. George Washington may have displayed this example in the Dining Room or West Parlor at Mount Vernon, prior to the redesign and expansion of the mansion in the 1780s. Candlelight reflected in its mirrored surface and playing off the gilt decoration would have created a brilliant atmosphere during an evening's entertainment.