A Chinese Chippendale style Chinoiserie decorated pier mirror…

 

pagoda top. A shape based loosely on that of a Chinese pagoda, that is, pyramidal with sloped sides and a top cap. However there are many variations on the basic shape from a relatively flat pagoda to a tall pagoda with almost parallel concave sides to a true pagoda shape. As found on a pagoda, the pagoda top is often surmounted by a fancy finial. The pagoda top is most frequently found on the hoods of 18th century long case clocks, and on bracket clocks, and sometimes on Chinese Chippendale style furniture.

chinoiserie. Forms and decorative devices in imitation of the Chinese taste. First became popular in the late 17th century, though there were frequent revivals, notably by Chippendale (hence 'Chinese Chippendale') during the Regency period, and the Anglo-Japanese style in the second half of the 19th century. The ubiquitous 'willow pattern' is the most common 'Chinese' theme used in porcelain and black or red painted or lacquered decoration on furniture, though the hallmark of the furniture style is the use of fretwork in geometrical patterns, pagodas and other decorative forms. Japonaiseries, as the name implies, are motifs in imitation of the Japanese taste

provenance. A term used to describe the provable history of an antique or work of art, and thus an additional aid to verifying its authenticity. Provenance can have an inflating effect on the price of an item, particularly if the provenance relates to the early settlement of Australia, a famous person, or royalty. Less significant are previous sales of the item through an auction house or dealer.

The buyers premium is an additional percentage charge on the hammer price of the item, imposed by the auction house to cover administrative costs. The buyers premium percentage varies between auction houses, with a range of 12.5% to 22%.