East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 907 CE, probably early in the period, ca. 7th to 8th century CE. A perfectly round mirror made of bronze with a high lead content to give it a silvery appearance. The mirror surface has been highly polished and is still quite smooth and reflective. The obverse has a molded decoration with intricate details. There are three rings of motifs in concentric circles. The outer rim is a band of leaves which flow down into the next ring, a group of passerine birds, both perched and flying, alongside bunches of grapes and vines. The inner ring is around a handle shaped like some kind of four-legged animal, circled by four lions, and a continuing design of grapes and vines. A mirror of this size could be easily carried inside of a sleeve for easy use throughout the day. Analysis of a similar mirror from the Freer Gallery of the Smithsonian found traces of silk imprinted upon the back of the mirror, leading researchers there to conclude that these mirrors would have been stored in silk pouches when not in use. Size: 4.4" W (11.2 cm)
The design shows the influence of outside culture on Tang China. The lions, described by Chinese sources as "auspicious animals", were brought to the country from the West; grapes, similarly, were brought from the west by Zhang Qian. These mirrors, with this design, were mass produced during the Tang Dynasty; many found their way to Japan and presumably many others travelled west along the Silk Road. The elaborate skill required to cast such a delicate design speaks to the wealth and technical prowess of China during the Tang Dynasty. This mirror is nearly identical to one held by the Tokyo National Museum.
Provenance: private Ventura County, California, USA collection
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#148106
Condition
Small areas of mottled, encrusted turquoise patina with much of the polished surface clear. Motifs and form are very clear.