Mirror with the Image of Avalokitesvara

Mirror with the Image of Avalokitesvara

백동 관음보살 경상 (白銅觀音菩薩文鏡像)

1900s

Korea, Joseon dynasty

(1392-1910)

Bronze with incised Buddhist designs

Overall: 15.7 x 13 cm (6 3/16 x 5 1/8 in.)

Director's Contingent Fund 1918.531

Location

not on view

Download and Share

Download
©
Print
Social share

Fun Fact

Due to its origin as an important tool in religion and politics, mirrors are often mentioned in many Korean proverbs that warn certain behaviors.

Description

Mirrors, along with swords and jade, were among the most important symbols of power. It is thought that mirrors held power through their ability to catch and reflect light. This rare trapezoid-shaped example is engraved with an image of the Avalokitesvara, Bodhisattva of Compassion and was used as a part of Buddhist rituals.

See also
Collection: 
Korean Art
Department: 
Korean Art
Type of artwork: 
Metalwork
Medium: 
Bronze with incised Buddhist designs
Credit line: 
Director's Contingent Fund

Contact us

The information about this object, including provenance information, is based on historic information and may not be currently accurate or complete. Research on objects is an ongoing process, but the information about this object may not reflect the most current information available to CMA. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@clevelandart.org.

To request more information about this object, study images, or bibliography, contact the Ingalls Library Reference Desk.

Is something not working on this page? Please email help.website@clevelandart.org.

Request a digital file from Image Services that is not available through CC0, a detail image, or any image with a color bar. If you have questions about requesting an image, please email imageservices@clevelandart.org.