Bronze. China, possibly Eastern Han (1st - 2nd century AD)
Of circular form with broad rim, centered of a globular knob with loop, encircled of a four-lobed motif and square border, further encircled of tiny knobs and a spiral pattern, followed by radial lines; broad rim bearing a serrated pattern; few patina on the decorative side, the reverse side with patina and reflecting shine due to the content of zinc and silver what is authentic for the period. é’銅åšå±€ç´‹å°é¡. 中國, æ±æ¼¢æ™‚代風格. 直徑 11.8 厘米.
DIAMETER 11,8 CM
From an old Chinese private collection in Austria
This Chinese mirror is from an old German collection that was acquired from the Berlin antiques trade during the interwar period.
What is a bronze mirror? The style and design of such mirrors is related to the respective era, however, it is based on a ground shape and even more on the traditional purpose. What was going to be reflected was dependent on the metal alloy and the polishing of the surface.
The art lower is interested only in the decorative side. Each era had its own ways of expression and preferences. In general, in ancient China mirrors served as apotropaic devices and as burial gifts since ghosts were most sensitive to the mirror reflections. However, beginning with the Tang era the significance of the bronze mirrors has decreased and more and more they became collectible pieces for lovers of antique art and the “literatiâ€.