Qianlong-Marked Rectangular Mirror

This mirror is rectangular, with a flat-topped rectangular knob inscribed ‘Made in the Qianlong period’. The back decoration imitates the style of Han dynasty mirrors. The inner zone depicts deities, dragons, phoenixes, birds, animals, game-board motifs, bosses, and cloud patterns. The outer zone contains semi-circular and square panels; within the 14 square panels are a total of 56 inscribed characters. They are bordered by bands of cloud and diamond patterns sepa-rated by small bosses, all enclosed by a narrow outer rim.

This is a representative example of Qing court mirrors made in imitation of ancient bronzes. While retaining Han mirror elements, it also innovates, breaking from the traditional round or square mirror shape into an uncommon rectangle, showcasing inventive reinterpretation of antiquity.