Chinoiserie Black Japanned Overmantel Mirror

Chinoiserie Black Japanned Overmantel Mirror

An exceptional Victorian chinoiserie black japanned overmantel mirror expertly capturing the 19th-century English fascination with the East. This antique mirror artfully combines English craftsmanship with ornate Oriental-inspired motifs, making it a striking statement piece for period interiors.

Origin: England
Date: Circa 1870
Material: Giltwood and glass with japanned lacquer

Dimensions: Height 152 cm (60 inches)

Condition: Excellent antique condition, with rich patina commensurate with age

Reflecting the pinnacle of Victorian taste for chinoiserie, this japanned overmantel mirror stands as a testament to the eclectic decorative arts of late 19th-century England. Its elegant black lacquer finish is highlighted by gilt detailing, rivalled only by those found in prominent museum collections. The overall design draws parallels to the works of celebrated English makers who embraced chinoiserie, such as those decorating grand country houses, blending Eastern influence with native ornament.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite hand-painted oriental scenes across the border, set within a gold-hatched frame, recall the lavishness of imported lacquerware coveted during the Victorian era.
• The central head of a Chinaman, surrounded by a petal roundel, exemplifies the era’s imaginative incorporation of exotic imagery, while bold gilded ribbon motifs accentuate the mirror’s sides.
• Flanked by two dramatic recumbent winged figures with scaled bodies, clawed feet, and stylised dog-human heads, this overmantel mirror demonstrates an impressive synthesis of fantasy and traditional craftsmanship.
• Its considerable height and commanding rectangular form make it highly desirable for both collectors and interior designers seeking an authentic antique chinoiserie mirror.

Showcasing the best traditions of Victorian japanned and giltwood work, this overmantel mirror offers outstanding value for collectors of 19th-century English decorative arts, chinoiserie enthusiasts, or anyone wishing to enhance their living space with a statement piece. Its reflective surface and ornate detailing are ideal for display above fireplaces or as a focal point within grand entrance halls, lending refinement and historical resonance to any period setting.