A rare imperial zitan mirror frame and stand Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period

the oblong frame finely carved to the front side in relief with ornate leafy scrolls, the separate hardwood stand with a rectangular panel reticulated and carved with a lotus bloom in the centre on a scrolling leafy stem, the splayed apron carved with stylised shell and foliate scrolls, the four supports similarly carved, the wood dark brown in tone with a shiny patina, the mirror glass replaced

This piece is a fine example of works from the Qianlong period which display European influences on its style and production.  While the imitation of Chinese styles, known as chinoiserie, was popular at the courts in Europe during this period, there was also a vogue at the Chinese court for fine works in European style.  During the mid-18th century, European Jesuit artists were employed at the court to design the imperial palaces.  The resulting buildings combined a mix of Italian rococo style with Mughal-inspired foliate and floral designs.  The elegant and ornate scrolling leaves and patterns on this piece reflect the finest carvings found in the European palaces.  This frame and stand was most likely made during the height of the Chinese court's fascination with the European style, which the Chinese artist has superbly translated into the classic, highly prized zitan.