Chinese bronze foliate mirror from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD)

• Mirror of lobed form, cast at the center with a domed knob encircled by two kilin and two birds, a raised rim with butterflies and floral sprays.
• Condition of the mirror is commensurate with age, extensive wear, cracks, weathering, corrosion, nicks, losses. Naturally grown patina with extensive malachite encrustation.

• Provenance: This piece originates from the collection of Dr. Walter Rieder (1890-1986) and has remained within the family through descent. Notable old inventory label, marked as ‘RIE.1976.311’ is affixed to the mirror. A handwritten note by Dr. Rieder accompanies the piece, describing it as ‘2 Birds, 2 Kilin & ornamental pattern’. Additionally, the padded box containing the piece bears inscriptions indicating it was a farewell gift from the trade commissioner Yamamoto in 1938. The latter is a translation of the German text "Abschiedsgeschenk von Zollcommissioner Yamamoto".

  Dr. Walter Rieder served in the Swiss East Asia Mission (SOAM) in Qingdao, Shandong Province, from October 1930 to December 1951. Despite not being a theologian or missionary, Dr. Rieder played a crucial role as an educator, teaching mathematics, physics, and science to high school students attached to the SOAM. His guiding principles of 'Creating understanding between different cultures' and 'Building bridges between East and West' were central to his work.

  During his time in Qingdao, Dr. Rieder amassed a diverse collection of Chinese art, offering a unique glimpse into the antiques available in the Qingdao market during the mid-20th century. His collection not only reflects his passion for Chinese art but also showcases the personal connections he formed with local artists, many of whom he encountered through his teaching activities.

  Dr. Rieder approached his collection with scholarly dedication, often accompanying objects with meticulous notes containing art historical insights. For Dr. Rieder, his collection served as a gateway to understanding the history and culture of China.

  Several objects from Dr. Rieder's collection were exhibited at the Kunsthaus in Interlaken, Switzerland, in both 2006 and 2018, providing an opportunity for audiences to appreciate and learn from his remarkable collection.

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During the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), bronze mirrors held immense cultural, social, and artistic significance in China. These mirrors were not just functional items for reflecting images but also represented symbols of wealth, status, and artistic excellence, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tang Dynasty.

Key Aspects of Bronze Mirrors in the Tang Dynasty:

• Artistic Craftsmanship: Bronze mirrors of the Tang Dynasty were renowned for their exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. They were often circular or occasionally octagonal in shape, with intricate designs and ornate decorations on the reverse side.

• Material and Manufacturing: These mirrors were predominantly made of bronze, a durable and valuable material. Skilled artisans used sophisticated casting techniques to create these mirrors, often incorporating elaborate patterns, mythical creatures, floral motifs, and inscriptions.

• Symbolism and Cultural Significance: Bronze mirrors held symbolic importance beyond their utilitarian function. They were considered auspicious and symbolized spiritual beliefs such as protection against evil spirits, bringing good luck, and warding off negativity.

• Social Status and Prestige: Owning bronze mirrors was a mark of social status and wealth during the Tang Dynasty. Mirrors were cherished possessions of the elite and were often exchanged as prestigious gifts among nobility or presented as valuable offerings.

• Archaeological Significance: Excavations and archaeological findings across China have unearthed numerous Tang Dynasty bronze mirrors, providing insights into ancient Chinese aesthetics, technology, and social customs. These mirrors often reveal details about the era's artistic styles and cultural influences.

• Reflective Properties: Apart from their symbolic and artistic significance, bronze mirrors were functional objects used for grooming, ritualistic purposes, and as decorative items in homes and palaces.

• Inscriptions and Designs: Some bronze mirrors featured inscriptions with dates, poetic verses, or the names of their owners, offering historical and cultural information. The designs varied, featuring auspicious symbols, animals, flowers, celestial motifs, and intricate geometric patterns.

The bronze mirrors of the Tang Dynasty serve as tangible artifacts reflecting the artistic sophistication, cultural symbolism, and social customs of ancient China. Their exquisite designs, cultural significance, and historical context continue to fascinate historians, art enthusiasts, and collectors, offering a glimpse into the thriving cultural and artistic achievements of the Tang Dynasty.

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