Mirror

206 B.C.-220 A.D.

Mirrors cast in bronze during the Han dynasty often had motifs that were cosmological or religious in nature on the back. The "TLV" mirror-now so-called because of the T, L, and V-shaped markings bordering a square-illustrates the type of diagrammatical design that is thought to have cosmological significance. In addition, the square form probably symbolizes the earth while the circular shape represents the heavens, two basic Chinese concepts regarding the universe. The TLV markings, interspersed with mystical creatures, may relate to celestial movements and the seasons.

Bronze

Diam.: 6 3/16 in.

Thickness: 1/4 in.

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

48.157

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "Timeless Grandeur: Art from China"
April 25, 2002 - June 12, 2005

Seattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "Chinese Metalwork", July 12 - November 27, 1988, (07/12/1988 - 11/27/1988)

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