Mirror with “Grass-Leaf” Pattern
Western Han dynasty (206 BCE - 9 CE)
Bronze
Gift of Dr. Ste…

Images(2)

Mirror

ClassificationsFurnishings-Accessories-mirrors

Date206 BCE - 9 CE

Made AtChina, Asia

MediumBronze

Dimensions1/2 × 5 in. (1.3 × 12.7 cm)

Credit LineGift of Dr. Stephen R. Blair In Memory of Armand J. Labbe

Object number2005.35.1

DescriptionThis object is a bronze mirror from the Western Han dynasty (206 BCE - 9 CE). Although it may be hard to imagine due to its current state of oxidation, the smooth reverse side of this object was once polished so finely that one could see their reflection in the bronze.

Mirrors frequently carry messages wishing the owner good fortune. The inscription on this mirror reads:

May you enjoy lasting fortune.
May you enjoy wine and food.
May you enjoy freedom from worry.
May your days be replete with happiness.

This "grass-leaf" pattern was one of the earliest to appear in the Han dynasty. An identical mirror was found in the tomb of Liu Sheng (died 113 BCE), a royal prince of the Han dynasty. The knobs in the center of the mirrors had holes so that they could be secured to frames. The high tin content once produced a highly reflective surface on the smooth reverse of the mirror.

On View

On view