Antique French Chinoiserie Black Lacquer Hand Painted Beveled Mirror
2001-912605A (Click to Inquire About This Item)
29H x 37W
Location: Baton Rouge
SaleA French chinoiserie mirror discovered in Paris, its frame finished in deep black lacquer and hand painted in gold with imaginary scenes of the Far East. Willow trees, flowering branches, and a garden pavilion unfold across the scrolled crest, where robed figures in russet tones wander beneath trailing willows. A fan motif rises at the center between two scrolls, each ending in a red lacquered roundel.
Below the crest, the arched frame is covered in a fine gilt trellis pattern, framing cartouches of chrysanthemums, landscapes, and small figures along the base. The beveled mirror plate is cut to follow every contour of the frame, a demanding piece of glasswork that gives the silhouette a crisp, finished line.
European fascination with Asian lacquer began with the trade ships of the 17th century, and by the 18th century French artisans such as the Martin brothers had developed celebrated lacquer finishes of their own. In the early 20th century, Parisian decorators embraced lacquer once more, and chinoiserie returned to the most fashionable interiors of the city.
Above a mantel, in a powder room, or over an entry console, the black and gold palette brings depth, sparkle, and a touch of the exotic to both classic and contemporary rooms.
Circa early 1900s
Measures 29H x 37W
Available at Inessa Stewart's Antiques, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
