Chinese bronze "Hai Ma P'u T'ao" round mirror, surface slightly convex and silvered, Tang period, repaired, sign on back "#13 T'ang 10.2 cm." Designed with sea animal boss surrounded by six mythical sea animals on field of vine tendrils and clusters of grapes in high relief. Raised circle and outer garland of grapes and birds to raised narrow rim. Patina clay soil and green incrustation.
Size: 4 diameter in
ZD19629
Bronze mirrors were treasured items of high artistic and symbolic value, used in China for more than 3,000 years. While the front of the mirror was polished to a reflective shine, the back was decorated with stylistic images of nature or pictures of animals and symbols which bring good fortune. Some mirrors also incorporated a handle to attach them to clothing. While the traditional round form signified perfection and reunion, there was some variation in form, especially during the Han, Song, and Yuan dynasties. Even in the early 20th century, bronze mirrors were part of China's social, cultural, and everyday life until their glass counterparts replaced them.