Rocco Antiques

Description

This elegant and stylish antique mirror shaped in a compact oval was made around the 1920's. The frame has a decorative black finish, which is created by a technique called japanning which imitates East Asian laquerwork.

The glossy black laquered surface is skilfully decorated by hand with a yellow or gold tinted paint. The artist used a variety of oriental scenes to create a style that is called chinoiserie. Rather special is the raised decoration that was most likely sculpted from laquer paste added to the surface of the wood. When the light catches this detailing the oriental scenes really come to life!

Derived from the French word for Chinese (chinois), the term chinoiserie was invented by the Europeans, who from the 17th century onwards become heavily influenced by the striking art and designs from East Asian countries such as China and Japan. Chinoiserie decoration features beautiful garden landscapes with bridges, exotic trees and vegetation, amazing pavilions and sweeping roofs of pagoda buildings, fabulous birds and figures in traditional dress. Many of these oriental elements can be found on this stunning mirror, like the lovely Chinese lady with her parasol.

This antique chinoiserie mirror is of a compact size that will work in all interior spaces. Two sturdy eye hooks are fitted to the back. The strong metal wire allows the mirror to be hung on the wall as soon as it has arrived in your home.