Silvered Bronze Mirror Depicting the Four Directions
In our opinion, Sui to Tang Dynasty (581-618)
Diameter: 9.25 inches
Height at Knob: 1/2 inch
Weight: 57 oz.
Inscription:
Guang liu su yue zhi bing xuanjing
Chengkong jian shui zhao pao ning qing
Zhonggu yong gu ying ci si ling
Translation:
It glimmers like the white moon,
receiving its qualities from the dark essence;
the bright sky reflects in the waters,
radiance saturates the crystallized purity.
Forever it remains solid,
making these four sacred beings shine.
Notes:
The “dark essence” refers to the spirit of the north, which in Chinese tradition is associated with water. The “four sacred beings” are the pictures of four mythical creatures on the surface of the mirror.
The remarkable design and symbolism of this transitional mirror places it in the category of a significant cultural object of the period. The design consists of four masterfully cast divine beasts representing the Four Directions of the compass. The Four Divine Beasts was a design motif used from the Han until the Sui to Tang periods. Early examples of pictorial representation of these animals may be found in stone objects of the Northern Wei dynasty (386-534 AD). An archaic form inscription is located on the central band.
The obverse side is in remarkably well-preserved condition with some green patination present. The reverse side has been conserved professionally with only a small area of brown patina remaining. In our opinion, this mirror is an exceptional example of the Sui to Tang Dynasty.
Reference Number: 2488
*ITEM SOLD
Ex Collection: Bulgari Family, Rome
Ex Collection Alan & Simone Hartman, New York City
For a related example of the period depicting the four divine animals see Bronze Mirrors from Ancient China, The Donald H. Graham Jr. Collection. Toru Nakano Editor. Donald H. Graham Jr. 1994. Catalogue number 68, (M34).
To inquire about this work of art, contact us at 415.299.1600 or email at sbernsteinjade@aol.com