Chinese Courting Mirror

ca 1800

This mirror belonged to a member of the Copp family of Stonington, Connecticut during the late 18th and early 19th century. Museum documentation notes that the mirror is likely of Chinese origin, like many similar “courting mirrors” of the time. These courting mirrors were given by suitors to young women as gifts, and were prized due to their Eastern origin and refinement. Many were kept in wooden protective cases like this one to protect it during its travels.