A flemish ebony mirror with inlaid lacquer

A large south netherlandish (Antwerp or Brussels) ebony with inlaid lacquer mirror.
17th century,
Very good condition.
Dimensions : 66 x 60 cm

This mirror is a magnificent example of how pieces of art were influenced by other cultures : The design of the inlay is influenced by the French Boulle marquetry (or vice-versa ???), the mother-of-pearl-inlay are influenced by the famous Japanese namban decoration. The mother-of-pearl rosaces are stylised representations of the flower Dianthus chinensis (Chinese carnation) often represented in the namban decoration which stands for “Flower of the Gods” and symbolizes admiration, passion, capriciousness, affection, love and gratitude.

This is the only known mirror-frame with the mother-of-pearl carnation inlay.

Bibliography :
-)” The Art of the Cabinet", M. Riccardi-Cubitt
-) “Zuid-Nederlandse pronkmeubels", Ria Fabri, 1989
-) “Flemish 17th century lacquer cabinets”, W. De Kesel & Greet Dhont

Comparanda :
- Ex-Kugel Collection, Paris (FR)
- OCMW Museum, Leuven (B)