eight arches around center knob surrounded by pattern of peonies and leaves

Mirror with eight arches, decorated with peonies and leaves, 12th-13th century

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Bronze, glassexpand_more

Gift of Louis W. Hill, Jr.expand_more  76.72.25

Not on Viewexpand_more

Finely cast bronze mirrors were a standard luxury good among aristocratic men and women. While the fronts were polished to achieve a reflective surface, the backs were cast in decorative relief and organized around a central domed eyelet to accommodate a cord. As magical solar disks, they were also frequently placed in tombs in the belief that they could illuminate the darkness for the spirit of the deceased.

Details
Title
Mirror with eight arches, decorated with peonies and leaves
Role
Artist
Dimension
8 1/2 in. (21.59 cm)
Accession Number
76.72.25
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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eight arches around center knob surrounded by pattern of peonies and leaves