Fragile and rare, these neoclassical mirrored wall sconces, donated to the BMA in 1973, are making their first appearance in the galleries after recent restoration. The design expresses the impact of English neoclassicism, particularly the work of Robert Adam. However the use of Eastern white pine suggests an American origin. About a dozen related mirrors in varying sizes have emerged in public and private collections over the past few years. Ambitious but slightly awkward, with distinctive urns, bunches of upside down feathers, and birds holding floral festoons, the mirrors are difficult to date. It is unclear whether they are products of the Federal period or a slightly later revival. At present, scholars believe that the mirrors were made on the North Shore of Massachusetts, possibly in Salem, one of the wealthiest towns in New England.