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Mirror (Shinjūkyō) Based on Han Dynasty Prototype with Cosmological Design

4th–5th century
Not on view
The Japanese “deity and beast mirror” (shinjūkyō) is an ancient type of round bronze mirror decorated with images from Chinese mythology and cosmology. The obverse of this example features a polished mirror, while relief representations of Chinese deities and legendary creatures decorate the reverse. As Chinese bronze-casting technology spread, these mirrors were produced in Japan, beginning in the Kofun period. Based on their mysterious ability to reflect all things (a property they share with swords and jewels), mirrors are attributed with profound religious significance and have been used in Shinto rituals since ancient times.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 神獣鏡
  • Title: Mirror (Shinjūkyō) Based on Han Dynasty Prototype with Cosmological Design
  • Period: Kofun period (ca. 300–710)
  • Date: 4th–5th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: Diam. 7 3/4 in. (19.7 cm); D. 1/2 in. (1.3 cm)
  • Classification: Mirrors
  • Credit Line: The Harry G. C. Packard Collection of Asian Art, Gift of Harry G. C. Packard, and Purchase, Fletcher, Rogers, Harris Brisbane Dick, and Louis V. Bell Funds, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, and The Annenberg Fund Inc. Gift, 1975
  • Object Number: 1975.268.383
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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