Dressing table mirrors such as this example were used by Nonyas (Peranakan women) in their bedrooms. They were one of the items purchased or commissioned as part of a set of bridal furniture and usually placed on a dresser. This piece, lacquered black and gilt, is unusual as most pieces were lacquered red. It is ornately carved and has motifs popular with the Peranakan, such as birds, peonies, scrolling foliage, lion-dog legs and ‘ruyi’ lappets. Mirrors were common items in Peranakan homes. The Peranakans had certain beliefs about mirrors in the home. During thunderstorms mirror that hung in open airwells or corridors were often covered. If there was a death in the family, white paper was pasted across mirrors forming an ‘X’ to indicate that the family was in mourning.
