A pair of absolutely exquisite 18th century Chinese export reverse glass portrait paintings in 18th century lacquer frames. Canton, circa 1800.

Why we like them

These delightful portraits, with their glowing quality, crispness of daintytiny detail and vibrance of colours, are rare survivors of their kind. Full of symbolic meaning and aesthetically pleasing, simply gorgeous.

The portraits depict a gentleman and a lady of the upper class engaging in an artistic and scholarly pursuits. The depiction of long nails emphasises their elevated social status, leisurely lifestyle, and detachment from manual labor. It highlights their affiliation with the literati culture and its associated values of learning, refinement, and aesthetic sensibility.

Dimensions

Framed:

Width: 10.25 in / 26 cm
Height: 12.5 in / 32 cm

Artworks:

Height: 10 in / 25 cm
Width: 7.5 in / 19 cm