Song Dynasty Bronze Handled Mirror With Moon‑Palace Scene Pattern

拍品描述

Dimensions: Overall length 17.2 cm (6.77 inches), round mirror diameter 10.1 cm (3.98 inches), Period: 10th-13th centuries, Condition and Provenance: Cast in one piece. The mirror is intact without cracks or defects. The round mirror is securely attached to the handle. The high-relief design is clearly defined, with fairies, attendants, mythical beasts, cranes, clouds, and plants clearly visible. The surface is covered with a thick layer of reddish-green patina, deeply embedded in the metal. The outer edge shows only minor dents and natural wear, caused by ancient use and burial. There are no signs of later welding repairs, re-engraving, or artificial chemical coloring. The Song dynasty casting mark is preserved. This piece was formerly owned by a private collector in San Francisco, California, specializing in Chinese medieval bronzes. The collector specialized in bronze mirrors with folk themes from the Song and Jin dynasties. This piece was acquired in the 1990s. Documents and old photographs have been preserved, and it is categorized as a Song dynasty narrative mirror. The provenance is well-documented and traceable. Description: This Song Dynasty hand-held bronze mirror depicts the classic myth of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, a popular theme during the Song Dynasty. The mirror's relief vividly portrays the scene: an elegant celestial maiden, kneeling attendants, reclining mythical beasts, and cranes amidst clouds and grass, all in a balanced composition. The handle is adorned with carvings of the moon, stars, and auspicious animals. Such hand-held mirrors were widely used for daily grooming in Song Dynasty society, reflecting folk aesthetics and auspicious concepts. Completely preserved narrative-themed hand-held mirrors are extremely rare. It provides important material evidence for the study of Song Dynasty folk mythology, secular art, and bronze mirror craftsmanship. It possesses exceptional archaeological and historical value, decorative value, and high-level antique collection value.

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