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Mirror
Chinese
Eastern Han dynasty
2nd century
Medium/Technique
Cast bronze with high-relief decoration of dragons and inscription
Dimensions
Diameter 14.5 cm (5 11/16 in.), Weight 493 gm (1.09 lb.)
Credit Line
Chinese and Japanese Special Fund
Accession Number12.1059
CollectionsAsia
ClassificationsMetalwork
InscriptionsAn inscription of twenty-four characters is arranged in a set of twelve small squares spaced evenly along the perimeter of the relief portion. It reads: "I made this shining mirror...to wish the owner longevity, prosperity, fitting to be a king or duke, enjoying endless happiness."
ProvenancePurchased in China by Okakura Kakuzo, 1912.