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I am offering a part of the heritage of my family and other relatives, or even close ones, and there are many objects that have been in the same hands for several years.

No doubt when you receive this good you will enjoy it as much as others did in the past.
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BEAUTIFUL VINTAGE BENAKI MUSEUM REPLICA APHRODITE EROS GOLD ON COPPER MIRROR LID, 
MUSEUM INDEX 8065, MOUNTED ON A ACRYLIC BASE.

LID OF A MIRROR

A relief representation of Aphrodite and Eros on the lid of a hinged copper mirror. The goddess of beauty, frequently depicted in the decoration of many toilet accessories, sits on a schematically rendered rock, like an enthroned queen. The stylistic treatment dates the work to the 4th century B.C.

Very Good! - Circa 1980

Ideal gift for special occassions or collectors. This is a beautiful museum replica of a Greek mirror lid.  It has no restorations, no wear in the borders nor the acrylic, very good condition for the time that has passed (+45 years). Acquired by a family member on a trip and received as an inheritance. No original packaging. 

Official Identification of the Piece

Original Object: This is a hinged copper mirror lid.

Location and Registration: The original piece is part of the inventory of the Benaki Museum in Greece, officially cataloged under inventory number 8065 (Inv. No. 8065).

Stylistic Dating: The artistic treatment places the original work in the 4th century BC (Late Classical/Early Hellenistic Period).

Nature of The Replica: The technical label classifies it with the production code AA 0296, specifying that it is a gold-on-copper replica, which gives it its characteristic and imposing golden sheen on the textured relief.

Museum Iconographic Description

The description confirms that the goddess of beauty (Aphrodite) is seated on a rock depicted schematically (resembling a royal throne), a very common iconographic motif in the dressing accessories of women in high society in ancient Greece. Beside her is her son Eros, completing a scene laden with symbolism about love, aesthetics, and personal care in antiquity. With its dimensions (15 cm in diameter for the plaque and the acrylic support of 19x18x7 cm, with a total weight of 410 g), it is evident that it is a medium-format collector's edition, ideal for display in showcases or on shelves.

History and Use of Mirrors in the 4th Century BC

The original work from which the mold was taken represents one of the pinnacles of utilitarian design from the Early Hellenistic Period:

Objects of Extreme Luxury: In ancient Greece, mirrors were not made of glass. They were solid bronze or copper discs, highly polished on one side to reflect light. They were extremely expensive and belonged exclusively to aristocratic women or those of high social standing.

Hinged Mechanism: The hinged design functioned like a modern powder compact. The outer copper case protected the delicate polished surface of the inner mirror from scratches and oxidation.

The Role of Aphrodite: Engraving Aphrodite and Eros on the outer casing had both ritual and functional significance. By using the vanity accessory, the owner symbolically invoked beauty, eternal youth, and the favor of the goddess of love during her daily beauty and hairstyling routine.

Cleaning and Conservation Guide

To preserve the piece without damaging its combined materials, follow these guidelines:

For the Gold Plate (Gold over Copper): As this is a gold-plated replica, never use abrasive metal polishes (such as Brasso or silver cleaners). These chemicals will remove the thin layer of gold and expose the copper underneath. Clean the relief only using a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust accumulated in the crevices.

For the Black Acrylic Support: Glossy acrylic scratches extremely easily. Completely avoid using commercial glass cleaners or alcohol. Lightly dampen a clean microfiber cloth with distilled water and a single drop of mild liquid soap, gently wipe without applying pressure, and dry immediately.

Measurement 

(Mirror Lid):
Diameter: 6" (15 cm)
Thickness: 1" (2.5 cm)
(Frame):
Height: 7.2" (18 cm)
Lenght: 7.5" (19 cm)
Width: 2.8" (7 cm)

Weight: 14.5 oz (410 g)

Please check all the information, including the Seller Notes Field and all the photos available, they are part of the listing information.

Shipments are made with appropriate and sufficient protection. Large, heavy, or fragile items are meticulously packed with professional materials, using bubble wrap, double-layered envelopes/cardboard, and a sturdy box to ensure safe transport.

IMPORTANT: I offer combined shipping. Many of my items have free shipping if send together, and for the rest, shipping will be 50% or less of the cost indicated for each item if shipped together (large items are send individually only). 

How to get the best combined shipping?

When you add the different items you want to your cart, to request an invoice, click the "Request total from seller" button on the right.

To pay, wait to receive the updated invoice with the combined shipping costs and then make your payment. I usually send the invoice within 12 hours or less, often within minutes (between 9 AM and 7 PM, GMT-3), even on holidays.

Regarding the offer, please read this information carefully:
 
The approved return refund will be limited to the sale price of the item at maximum. Shipping costs, insurance, import fees, tariffs or related costs outside of the sales price are the responsibility of the buyer.

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any inquiry about them.

Shipments are delivered in 3 to 7 business days. 

Thank you for the preference and trust!

Ref. #4053