Tang Dynasty Bronze Mirror
Tang Dynasty Bronze Mirror
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Tang Dynasty, c. 618–907 AD, China
A beautifully cast solid bronze mirror from the Tang Dynasty, exemplifying the elegant restraint and refined craftsmanship of medieval Chinese metalwork. Circular in form, the mirror features a central perforated suspension loop surrounded by two raised concentric rings that define the inner field and outer edge. The simplicity of the design, together with the prominent raised inner ring, suggests a date within the later Tang period.
Like the ancient jade bi disc, the circular form of Chinese bronze mirrors carried profound symbolic associations with the sun, moon, and the spiritual realm. Mirrors were valued not only as practical objects but also as powerful ritual and protective devices, believed to ward off evil influences and serve as conduits between the earthly and celestial worlds.
The reverse is decorated with concentric raised bands of subtle curvature radiating outward from the central knob, creating a striking ripple-like effect reminiscent of water. The perforated central knob would originally have accommodated a silk cord or tassel, allowing the mirror to be suspended, carried, or attached to garments. Mirrors of this type were often treasured personal possessions and occasionally deposited as grave goods.
The obverse, now plain, would originally have been meticulously polished and coated with a reflective amalgam, often incorporating mercury or silver, producing a bright mirror-like surface. Combining understated elegance with symbolic significance, this Tang bronze mirror offers a compelling glimpse into the artistic sophistication and cosmological beliefs of one of China's greatest dynastic periods.
Good condition. Surface wear, chip and abrasions commensurate with age and use. Deep dark green patina with silvery areas. Size approx. 8,1cm x 8,1cm x 0,8cm.
Provenance: Swedish private collection
For a similar examples see:
Bronze mirror, Linden-Museum Stuttgart, Accession number: 106213 (https://sammlung-digital.lindenmuseum.de/en/object/mirror_17005)
Mirror with design of concentric circles, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession number: 1985.214.21 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/61422)
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Shipping
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Returns
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