A peculiar post today about a Federal style “fish eye” mirror I sought (but never bought) for Rosslyn’s foyer when we were still rehabilitating, still decorating, still conjuring a whole home out of myriad discrete parts. Mostly a poem flanked with wistful renderings of two history hued artifacts that whisper neoclassical prayers while subtly dilating and distorting the here and now.
![Rendering of Federal Style Mirror (Geo Davis)](https://i0.wp.com/www.rosslynredux.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/img_2783-1.jpg?resize=600%2C600&ssl=1)
I’m reminded of words delivered by Murray Burns (played by Jason Robards) in the 1965 film, A Thousand Clowns. This refrain peppers our Davis family conversations to this day.
“You can’t have too many eagles.”
— Murray Burns (Source: A Thousand Clowns by Herb Gardiner)
The American bald eagle, so much a symbol of our nation’s courage and strength (especially in the decades when Rosslyn was being born), has become a constant if evolving presence in recent times. Today’s images and poem might be criticized for lacking clarity. For offering blurry edges. Sorry.
![Rendering of Federal Style Mirror (Geo Davis)](https://i0.wp.com/www.rosslynredux.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/img_2784-1.jpg?resize=600%2C599&ssl=1)
Eagle Mirror
Wood carved, gilded,
patinated,
encircles a
domed semi-sphere.
The crazed mirror's
convex glass warps
my reflection.
Thirteen orbs ring
the dilated
and distorted
not quite likeness,
a colonial
allusion,
parts united.
Presiding proud,
the bald eagle,
stern and ready,
wings outstretched,
tops the fledgling
nation, whispers
of history
and ambition.
What do you think?