A MOTHER-OF-PEARL INLAID ZITAN FRAMED MIRROR QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

based on archaic bronze mirrors, the circular zitan disc embellished in mother-of-pearl with four characters Qianqiu bao jian ('The Eternally Treasured Mirror') in seal script, reserved in roundels on a ground densely carved with stylised dragons in low relief, all surrounding a small raised knop decorated with mother-of-pearl, the knop pierced to suspend a tassel, the reverse mounted with a mirror, the patina of a deep chestnut-brown tone

There are some fine cracks to the mother-of-pearl possibly from the time of manufacturing, with the longest one measuring about 0.3 cm to the character qian. The character jian also has a tiny patch of original flaw. Apart from some typical oxidation to the mirror, the overall condition is quite good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Traditional mirrors with high levels of tin, with one side polished for reflection and the other side with moulded archaistic designs, were no longer commonly used by the mid-Qing period. However, the Qianlong court appears to have sponsored the making of mirrors in bronze and various other materials for Daoist rituals. Compare a mirror of related form and design but cast from bronze included in the exhibition Splendors of China's Forbidden City: The Glorious Reign of Emperor Qianlong, The Field Museum, Chicago, 2004, cat. no. 189; and a brass example, but lacking a reign mark, in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, illustrated in Rose Kerr, Later Chinese Bronzes, London, 1990, pl. 90. For a painting of a court lady holding a mirror of this type, see one from the set of twelve paintings Twelve Beauties at Leisure Painted for Prince Yuzhen, the Future Yongzheng Emperor (1709-23), included in the exhibition China. The Three Emperors 1662-1795, Royal Academy of Arts, London, 2005, cat. no. 173 (bottom right).