Song Dynasty (10th–13th Century) Bronze Circular Mirror with Ocean Waves and Twin Fish Design

拍品描述

Dimensions: Diameter 21.5 cm (approx. 8.5 inches, 0.71 feet), weight 1253 grams (2.76 pounds), Song Dynasty (10th-13th centuries). Condition and Provenance: Excellent overall condition, perfectly round, with intact edges and no obvious defects, cracks, or perforations. The surface retains a natural reddish-brown patina with a small amount of naturally formed green corrosion, and the carved decorations also show signs of age. Provenance: Private collection in California, USA, long held in a private art collection. Description: This large bronze mirror features a beautiful double-fish wave motif, one of the most representative auspicious themes in ancient Chinese bronze art. The mirror body is rounded and full, with a thick, raised outer edge giving it a stable and balanced profile. The bronze body is heavy, and the surface exhibits a rich reddish-brown color formed by centuries of natural weathering. The back is decorated with lotus petal patterns in the center, accompanied by a raised circular ring, surrounded by carefully arranged and highly symmetrical decorative patterns. The reverse side is entirely decorated with deeply carved wave patterns and a pair of large, high-relief fish. The background consists of tightly layered, flowing wave lines, creating a dynamic effect of water swirling around the fish, vivid and natural, symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and good fortune. This double-fish motif was particularly popular in Song and Jin dynasty bronze mirror decorations. The relief is layered and smooth, with precise casting details and no blurred mold marks. The decorative surface retains a warm, reddish-brown patina with a small amount of green corrosion, while the recessed areas retain long-term deposited minerals, highlighting the original casting details. The reverse side exhibits naturally formed layers of reddish-brown, green, and earthy corrosion, as well as subtle signs of historical wear, reflecting its long burial and oxidation. This bronze mirror, large in size and heavy in weight, with its exquisitely crafted double-fish design and preserved original patina, represents the craftsmanship, symbolic meaning, and aesthetic achievements of ancient Chinese bronze mirror making.

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