Artwork preview

Mirror with fantastic animals amid grape vines

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dark metal plate with a circular shape. The outer edge of the plate has a raised border with a rope-like pattern on the inner side. The plate's surface has an etched design of grape vines and various animals. A large animal with curved horns is etched in the center. The center also features multiple etched concentric circles; the inner one bears a beaded design. The plate appears to have a dark patina.

Artwork details

Date:
7th–8th century
Medium:
Bronze with black patina
Culture:
China
Dimensions:
599 × 573 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette