Looking glass
Japanning, the use of paint and gilded gesso to imitate the glossy finish on Asian lacquerwork, was a popular method of furniture decoration in colonial Boston. This looking glass, part of a group (40.37.1, .2, .4) of japanned furniture that descended in the Pickman family of Salem, Massachusetts, is an extraordinary survival. The painted decoration on the high chest, dressing table, and looking glass is all by the same hand.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.