Large bronze mirror, estimated to be from the Edo period in Japan, with pine, bamboo, plum, crane, turtle, and inscription, 39cm

Product Description

This is a bronze hand mirror estimated to be from the Edo period of Japan. It is a large-sized piece measuring 39cm, elaborately engraved with patterns of pine, bamboo, plum blossoms, and cranes. As a rare antique, it holds high collector value. If you wish to purchase, please proceed with secure payment immediately! This is a large traditional Japanese bronze hand mirror, known as Wakyo (和鏡) or Egarami (柄鏡). With a mirror diameter of approximately 27cm, a total length including the handle of approximately 39cm, and a weight of approximately 1.3kg, this work is much larger and heavier than typical small hand mirrors. The decorative side features a three-dimensional representation of Songjukmae (pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms), several cranes, and a turtle on waves. Songjukmae, along with the cranes and turtle, are traditional auspicious patterns symbolizing integrity, prosperity, longevity, and peace. It appears to be a type of Wakyo from the Horaimon lineage, which was used for weddings, longevity celebrations, and rituals. On the left side of the decorative surface, the following inscription is cast vertically: 「天下一松村因幡守藤原義信」 (Tenkaichi Matsumura Inaba-no-kami Fujiwara Yoshinobu) Matsumura Inaba-no-kami Fujiwara Yoshinobu is a lineage of mirror makers actually identified in Japanese Wakyo from the Edo period. Mirrors with the same inscription can be confirmed in Japanese museum collections and antique records. The feathers and legs of the cranes, the trunks and needles of the pine, the plum blossoms, bamboo, and the turtle and waves are all vividly rendered in a sophisticated high-relief form. A fine casting texture remains on the background, making the detailed expressions stand out even more upon closer inspection. The mirror plate and handle are intact, and most of the wisteria weave wrapped around the handle also remains. The mirror surface shows cloudiness, fine scratches, and stains due to actual use and the passage of time, and there are traces of black oxidation and some blue-green patina at the connection between the decorative side and the handle. To preserve the surface oxidation and antique patina, no separate polishing or strong cleaning has been performed. While no large cracks or severe defects are visible in the photos, please zoom in on the images to sufficiently check the condition, as it is an old antique. Based on the photos and comparative data, the work is judged to be of the Edo period lineage; however, as there is no separate official certificate of authenticity, the exact production date is provided as 'Estimated Edo Period.' The original paulownia wood storage box is not included; this is the bronze mirror only. Size: Mirror diameter approx. 27cm Total length: Approx. 39cm Weight: Approx. 1.3kg Material: Estimated bronze or copper-based alloy Composition: Bronze mirror only, no storage box Recommended for those who collect Japanese fine art, metal crafts, traditional Wakyo, or works featuring auspicious patterns.

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