Collection
/
Asian Art

Mirror

5th–6th century

Brooklyn Museum photograph

Object Label

This thin cast bronze mirror has a perforated central boss from which to hang a cord. Framed in the center of the mirror are four mythical and auspicious animals: a dragon, a tiger, a deer, and a two-headed bird. The dragon, in addition to symbolizing the ruler, has the power to repel evil spirits and control natural phenomena such as floods and droughts. The tiger represents valor and courage as well as protection from disease. The deer is a symbol of longevity and friendship. The bird refers not merely to a prosperous future but to immortality itself, as the deceased might fly, symbolically, on its back to heaven.

Caption

Mirror, 5th–6th century. Bronze, 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Dr. and Mrs. John P. Lyden, 2010.85.1. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Collection

Asian Art

Title

Mirror

Date

5th–6th century

Period

Three Kingdoms Period

Geography

Place made: Korea

Medium

Bronze

Classification

Accessory

Dimensions

4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)

Credit Line

Gift of Dr. and Mrs. John P. Lyden

Accession Number

2010.85.1

Frequent Art Questions

  • I see two mirrors on display. Am I seeing the back?

    Yes, you are seeing the back. The other side of this bronze mirror would be highly polished to create the reflective surface.

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