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

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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