An Exceptionally Carved Qing Dynasty Hardwood Chinese Export Mirror

An extraordinary and highly ornate late 19th / early 20th century Chinese Export pierced hardwood salon mirror, representing exceptional Cantonese craftsmanship from the late Qing Dynasty. Masterfully carved for the wealthy Western luxury market, this quality frame seamlessly fuses a dramatic, European-inspired Rococo silhouette with traditional Chinese narrative artistry.

​The frame is a tour de force of deep, multi-layered high-relief carving, executed with breathtaking precision against a finely pierced and textured background. The grand, asymmetric cartouche silhouette is framed by undulating C-scrolls, sweeping foliage, and stylized acanthus-leaf finials.

​Acting as a rich visual tapestry, the frame depicts an array of narrative scenes and traditional symbolism:

The upper pediment features a central pavilion sheltering an estate official or Daoist deity, flanked by attendants bearing a ceremonial parasol beneath a canopy of pine trees.

The gracefully curved side panels depict courtly figures and scholars in traditional robes interacting amidst weeping willow trees and rocky mountain pavilions (shanshui).

The lower corners are anchored by beautifully realized figures and auspicious fauna, including deer nestled in undergrowth—a traditional Chinese symbol of longevity and prosperity.

​A central rectangular aperture houses its mirror plate (later replacement), bordered by a multi-tiered inner frame showcasing a meticulously hand-carved geometric key-fret pattern

Height 39 cm x Width 26 cm x Depth 3 cm

Mirror Plate 15.5 x 10 cm

Wear commensurate with age.

Please note our collections are only available to securely purchase directly via the www.lcthome.com website

All of our collections are available to purchase directly at LCT Home so please visit our website where you will be able to view all of our pieces and purchase securely, shipping will be automatically added at checkout for UK clients, clients outside of the UK, please contact us for a bespoke shipping quote to your address.