Han Dynasty Bronze Mirror with Eight Bosses and Four Guardian Animals TLV Design (Western Han to Xinmang Period, 1st Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: 13.6 cm (5.35 in./0.45 ft) in diameter, 420 g (0.93 lb), a high-quality bronze mirror from the Western Han to Xin Dynasty period. Condition and Provenance: Excellent condition, complete form, clearly preserved decorations, exhibiting a natural green and reddish-brown patina, retaining the original bronze surface. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA. Description: This Han Dynasty bronze mirror features the classic "Eight Symbols and Four Beasts" motif, one of the most important bronze mirror forms from the Western Han to Xin Dynasty period. The mirror body is a thick circle, divided into two sides: one is a beautifully decorated back, and the other is a reflective surface used for grooming. A raised hemispherical knob is located in the center of the back, surrounded by a square frame. The four corners extend into a unique "Eight Symbols and Four Beasts" geometric pattern, a signature design of Han Dynasty bronze mirrors. Eight evenly distributed raised domes in the center of the mirror divide the decoration into four sections, each adorned with one of the four mythical beasts: the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise. These mythical beasts, with their vigorous lines and graceful postures, symbolize protection, auspiciousness, and harmony of the four directions. The outer decorative band features concentric circles adorned with intricate triangular patterns and a raised outer edge, showcasing the exquisite casting techniques and balanced composition of Han Dynasty bronzes. The mirror surface retains rich original patina, with dark green and reddish-brown oxide layers covering a dark bronze base. Large areas of the mirror retain the dark bronze base color, exhibiting natural mineralization and corrosion marks, displaying natural variations in emerald green, blue-brown, and dark bronze hues, revealing the authentic signs of age on ancient bronzes. This mirror, crafted using traditional casting techniques, combines practical function with cosmic symbolism, reflecting the Han Dynasty people's belief in protection, longevity, and harmony between heaven and earth. This Han Dynasty Four Guardian Beasts TLV bronze mirror is remarkably well-decorated, remarkably heavy, and possesses naturally formed patina, making it an outstanding representative of high-quality Han Dynasty Four Guardian Beasts TLV bronze mirrors.

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