Bidspirit auction | PAIR CHINESE QING REVERSE GLASS

PAIR CHINESE QING REVERSE GLASS COURTESAN PAINTINGS - A fine pair of antique Chinese Qing Dynasty reverse glass paintings, beautifully executed for the Western export market. The detailed companion portraits depict elegant Chinese beauties or courtesans in traditional attire against stark, dark backgrounds. One woman is portrayed thoughtfully reading a folded manuscript, adorned in a vibrant blue and white robe with intricate pearl and floral hair ornaments. The second figure is depicted holding a delicate floral sprig, seated beside a table featuring a vase of flowers and a draped red curtain. Both pieces are housed in their original, heavily patinated carved giltwood frames. chinese export art, reverse glass painting, qing dynasty, chinese beauty, courtesan portrait, antique gilt frame, orientalism, 19th century chinese art. Dimensions Frame 27 x 19 in. Image 23 x 15 in. All measurements are approximate. Condition Good antique condition. The reverse painted glass panels remain highly detailed, but exhibit expected age-related wear, including scattered areas of paint loss, lifting, and flaking, which is primarily visible in the dark background areas. The period carved giltwood frames show significant wear, rubbing, chipping, and joint separations. The original paper backing is brittle, torn, and heavily aged.