Large Antique Chinese Bronze Mirror Tang dynasty (581-907 A.D.)
$5,000.00
Cast in high-tin and low-lead bronze by the lost wax method, this mirror has a dark and lustrous patina known as heiqigu (literally “black lacquer antique”). It bears a design of a coiling dragon among trailing clouds. With a small, elongated head connecting to an S-curve of the neck that is as sinuous as the body and tail, the dragon of the Tang period is unique.
Large antique Chinese Tang dynasty (581-907 A.D.) crisply cast in relief by the lost wax method bronze mirror of circular form, finished with a dark and lustrous patina known as heiqigu (literally, “black lacquer antique”). Mirror is decorated on the center with domed knob pierced with the hole for suspension surrounded by four Chinese zodiac mythical creatures amidst vines. The red bird (zhu qiao), phoenix (Fenghuang), green dragon (Qinglong) and the goa with a single horn (Xiezhi). Enclosed by a raised ridge and further encircled by a standing and flying birds and palmettes, encircled by a band of Chinese characters.
CONDITION: Cracked spots with malachite and earth encrustation.
DIAMETER: 18 cm (7.9 inches).
WEIGHT: 721 grams.
PROVENANCE: From an old Canadian Collection of Oriental Art.
A certificate of authenticity accompanies the mirror.
