A LARGE CHINESE BRONZE MIRROR

HAN DYNASTY 206BC - 220AD

Of circular form, the raised rim with a band depicting animals and birds within scrolls, edged by a sawtooth pattern, the centre with studs and characters arranged around a central pierced knop contained within a square, encircling this in shallow relief, a tiger, dragon and other mythical creatures amongst 'T', 'L' and 'V' motifs, 18.5cm.

Cf. Priestley & Ferraro Chinese Art, Behind the Chinese Mirror, The Art of The Mirrorsmith in Pre-Ming China, No.2 for a related example, and where it is noted that the 'TLV' motifs are believed to originally be design elements taken from the board of the ancient game, liubo.