Lot 696

Han Dynasty High-Tin Bronze Mirror, Grapevine & Beasts

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Han Dynasty High-Tin Bronze Mirror, Grapevine & Beasts

Estimate: $800 - $1,200

Starting Bid: $400

(0 Bids)

by Artemis Fine Arts
July 30, 2026 8:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

East Asia, China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 BCE – 220 CE. A high-tin bronze mirror, the reverse cast in relief with dog-like creatures encircling the central suspension loop and an outer register of grapevine scrollwork. High-tin bronze was favored for mirrors of this type for the lustrous, reflective surface it allowed when polished. The flat face retains traces of this original silvery polish beneath an overall encrustation of green patina accumulated over centuries of burial. Beyond their cosmetic use, mirrors carried potent symbolism: the polished disc evoked the sun and the principle of yang, and was believed to reveal truth and repel evil, which is why so many accompanied the dead into the grave. Size: 5" W (12.7 cm W).

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection, ex Barakat Gallery, Los Angeles, CA, acquired before 2005

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Item # 202654

  • Condition: Softening to motifs as expected with age. Heavy patina and oxidation throughout as expected with age and burial.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000