Mirror with Queen Mother of the West, Lord of the East, and mythical creatures

2nd–3rd century
Not on view
The seated figure with two attendants is the Queen Mother of the West, as indicated in the inscription. Seated across from her is her consort, the Lord of the East. According to Han dynasty mythology, they jointly ruled the universe.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 東漢 神僊異獣紋銅鏡
  • Title: Mirror with Queen Mother of the West, Lord of the East, and mythical creatures
  • Period: Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
  • Date: 2nd–3rd century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Bronze with black patina
  • Dimensions: Diam. 7 1/8 in. (18.1 cm)
  • Classification: Mirrors
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1917
  • Object Number: 17.52
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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