Artwork Page for Mirror of Tortoise Knob and Lotus Pattern

Details / Information for Mirror of Tortoise Knob and Lotus Pattern

Mirror of Tortoise Knob and Lotus Pattern

early 600s-early 900s

China, Tang dynasty

(618-907)
Medium
bronze
Measurements
Diameter: 12.5 cm (4 15/16 in.); Overall: 0.7 cm (1/4 in.); Rim: 0.5 cm (3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Drs. Thomas and Martha Carter in Honor of Sherman E. Lee 1995.361
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

The mirror retains much unaltered metal. The back of the mirror was highly polished and the reflecting properties of the high tin bronze can be easily observed.
The back of a circular bronze mirror features a central tortoise-shaped knob surrounded by a radiating lotus pattern of rounded petals. A raised circular rim contains this central design on the dark metal disk. Patches of light green oxidation and fine scratches cover the surface, extending to the slightly raised outer edge. Intricate details define the tortoise shell and the layered floral motif at the mirror's heart.

Mirror of Tortoise Knob and Lotus Pattern

early 600s-early 900s

China, Tang dynasty (618-907)

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