Large Antique Chinese Export Reverse Painted Mirror, Glass Painting 19th Century
Llanbister , United Kingdom
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Easy returns (14 days)
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Buyer protection
Damage is rare, and you're fully protected if it happens.
Dimensions
Wear Condition
Good
Material
Glass
Style
Antique, Oriental, Chinese Antiques
Product Details
Description
ANTIQUE CHINESE REVERSE-PAINTED MIRROR
On a larger-than-average scale, with three figures painted in the central section with a large mirrored background.
The figures are skillfully painted on the reverse of the glass, and due to their elaborate headdresses, robes and beards, probably depict high-ranking officials.
One figure is holding a scroll, which could represent a document, map or work of art; perhaps this is being presented to the two figures on the right, one of whom is holding a sword. Perhaps the figure on the left is presenting an important document to the emperor on the right, who is being protected by his bodyguard.
I would probably date this piece to the 19th century period in the latter part of the Qing dynasty. Circa 1850-1880 in date, but it could quite possibly be earlier. Quite often, the painted glass plates were exported from China and then imported to England, where they were later framed at their destination.
Framed in its original simple ebonised frame.
Overall, the piece is in great vintage condition. The glass is free from damage. The painted figures are bright and vibrant and have only very minor wear consistent with age. The original mirror plate is worn in places and, in our opinion, beautifully foxed and highly decorative. The frame is in good vintage order with only minor wear commensurate with age.
Overall measurements: 71cm x 51cm x 2cm.
Condition report:
Overall, the piece is in great vintage condition. The glass is free from damage. The painted figures are bright and vibrant and have only very minor wear consistent with age. The original mirror plate is worn in places and, in our opinion, beautifully foxed and highly decorative. The frame is in good vintage order with only minor wear commensurate with age.
Wear Condition
Good
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We have a 14-day return guarantee for orders from individual sellers, within the UK and European Union. View full policy.
Additional Delivery Info from Seller
Estimated delivery time
Less than one week
Free collection available
No
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Reviews
5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 12/02/2026
Clear, predictable protection for every pre-loved purchase.
Simple £75 flat return fee for UK-to-UK mainland furniture when you change your mind.
Applies to furniture with a final selling price of up to £5,000 (excluding delivery and service fees) and delivered from a UK mainland seller to mainland UK addresses. Excludes Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Scottish Highlands & Islands, Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly.
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Once an item has been dispatched, delivery costs are not refundable.
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2. Returning an item
You have 14 days from delivery to request a return.
There are two return types:
A. The item isn't as described (free return)
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B. You changed your mind
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Most smaller items are straightforward to return.
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The seller will confirm the best option based on the item.
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Damage on arrival is uncommon, especially for UK furniture deliveries.
But if something does go wrong, you're fully protected.
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Your statutory rights apply for up to 30 days from delivery.
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6. What happens next
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- Pickup or return method is arranged
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Returns are completed smoothly once the pickup is arranged.
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Once the seller receives the piece back in the same condition it was sent, we'll issue your refund to your original payment method.
Once a refund is issued, it may take up to 5–10 working days for the funds to appear back on your original payment method, depending on your bank or card provider.
If the item is returned with new damage that wasn't present at delivery, the refund may be adjusted following review.
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What your service fee covers
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14-day return guarantee
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Flat-fee return shipping on UK furniture
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Seller vetting
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Dedicated customer support
| Order Value (£) | Fee (£) |
|---|---|
| 0 — 49.99 | 2.75 |
| 50 — 99.99 | 5.50 |
| 100 — 199.99 | 11.00 |
| 200 — 399.99 | 21.00 |
| 400 — 599.99 | 30.00 |
| 600 — 799.99 | 40.00 |
| 800 — 999.99 | 50.00 |
| 1,000 — 1,499.99 | 55.00 |
| 1,500 — 1,999.99 | 60.00 |
| 2,000 — 4,999.99 | 82.50 |
| 5,000+ | 110.00 |
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