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Sep 30, 2020
Jan 4, 2005
Sep 30, 2020
TLV Mirror with Four Spirits and Companions
TLV Mirror with Four Spirits and Companions
四神博局式青铜鏡
AD 9–100
China, Han dynasty
(202 BC-AD 220)
Bronze
Diameter: 19 cm (7 1/2 in.); Overall: 1.2 cm (1/2 in.); Rim: 0.7 cm (1/4 in.)
Weight: 1.099 kg (2.42 lbs.)
Gift of Drs. Thomas and Martha Carter in Honor of Sherman E. Lee 1995.301
Location
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Description
The back of this mirror shows a diagram of the universe. The concentric rings and swirling cloud band border represent heaven, while the square field around the knob designates the earth. The four directional spirits in the form of animals occupy the space between heaven and earth and are cast in fine lines between the band of swirling clouds and outside the square: the tiger guarding the west, the dragon protecting the east, the red bird representing the south, and the snake-entwined turtle guarding the north.
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