• Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
Aug 21, 2012
Jan 27, 2004
Aug 21, 2012

Double-tier Mirror

Double-tier Mirror

透雕紋鏡

300s BCE

China, Warring States period

(475-221 BC)

Bronze

Diameter: 7.6 cm (3 in.); Overall: 0.8 cm (5/16 in.); Rim: 0.5 cm (3/16 in.)

Weight: 110 g (3.88 oz.)

Gift of Drs. Thomas and Martha Carter in Honor of Sherman E. Lee 1999.220

Location

241A Arts of Ancient China

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Did you know?

This luxury object consists of two different layers: a reflective disc with a central knob on the back, and a ring with openwork serpent designs.

Description

The craft of mirror making prospered remarkably during the Warring States period, as bronzes increasingly served as luxury items for individuals. A variety of ornamentations appear on the backs of mirrors, some of which bear resemblance to those found in contemporary jades, lacquer wares, and textiles—all luxury items of the day. This tiny round mirror belongs to the rare double-cast type. It consists of two different layers: a reflective disc with a central knob at the back, and a ring with openwork designs of undulating serpents.

See also
Collection: 
China - Zhou Dynasty
Department: 
Chinese Art
Type of artwork: 
Metalwork
Medium: 
Bronze
Credit line: 
Gift of Drs. Thomas and Martha Carter in Honor of Sherman E. Lee

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