12th-13th Century Korean Bronze Mirror of Emperor Ming Goryeo dynasty

"12th-13th Century Korean Bronze Mirror of Emperor Ming" is not a single, well-defined artifact, but rather a category of Korean bronze mirrors from the Goryeo dynasty that often depicts mythological scenes, such as the Tang Emperor Ming visiting the lunar palace, which are inspired by Chinese art.

 These mirrors are highly decorative, featuring detailed relief designs on the back and a polished, reflective front, and were considered both luxurious goods and items with magical and ritualistic significance.

 They were often placed in tombs or used in ceremonies for purification and divination. 

 

Characteristics

• Period: Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), specifically the 12th-13th centuries. 

• Culture: Korean, though the motifs were often inspired by Chinese art. 

• Design: The back of the mirror features intricate relief designs, while the front was polished to be highly reflective. 

• Decoration: Motifs frequently include mythological scenes, such as the one depicting Emperor Ming visiting the lunar palace, a cosmological design with celestial and terrestrial animals, and other auspicious creatures and plants. 

• Function:

• Luxury item: A standard luxury good among the aristocracy. 

• Ritualistic object: Used in purification rites and ceremonies to ward off evil spirits. 

• Funerary accessory: Often placed in tombs to illuminate the darkness, acting as a magical solar disk. 

• Construction: Made of bronze, with a central knob or eyelet on the back for a cord. The surface develops a greenish patina over time due to oxidation. 

Clarifying the name

• The name "Mirror of Emperor Ming" likely refers to mirrors that depict Chinese mythological scenes, such as the one showing the Emperor in the lunar palace. 

• This does not mean the mirror was a gift from the Emperor, but that it was a Korean-made object inspired by Chinese artistic themes. 

• The "Emperor Ming" reference is likely a misnomer, as the scene depicted is the Tang Emperor Ming visiting the lunar palace, a popular motif in Chinese art during the Tang dynasty. 

Very beautiful with aged patina