EN
♡
Double-tier Mirror — Anonymous, Warring States period (475–221 BCE)

Click image to view full screen

Written by: Isabella De LucaContributing Writer · Furniture & Decorative Arts
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 6557
Anonymous, Warring States period (475–221 BCE)

Double-tier Mirror

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
Own a comparable work? Consign with us

✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing

The craft of mirror making prospered remarkably during the Warring States period, as bronzes increasingly served as luxury items for individuals. A variety of ornamentations appear on the backs of mirrors, some of which bear resemblance to those found in contemporary jades, lacquer wares, and textiles—all luxury items of the day. This tiny round mirror belongs to the rare double-cast type. It consists of two different layers: a reflective disc with a central knob at the back, and a ring with openwork designs of undulating serpents.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, Warring States period (475–221 BCE)
Date300s BCE
Culture / OriginChina, Warring States period (475–221 BCE)
Mediumbronze
DimensionsDiameter: 7.6 cm (3 in.); Overall: 0.8 cm (5/16 in.); Rim: 0.5 cm (3/16 in.)
DepartmentChinese Art
TypeMetalwork
About the Artist

Full biography →

Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

Condition

A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.

Shipping & Collection

Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.

Buying at Matchless Pieces

Register, verify your identity, and bid online or in a private room. Buyer’s premium and taxes are shown before you confirm.

The Matchless Letter

Sale previews, new discoveries in illumination and miniature, and private-room invitations.