Mirror
Unknown Artist
12th–13th century
Medium
Bronze; cast, chased
Dimensions
W. 3/8 in. (1 cm) Diam. 8 11/16 in. (22 cm)
Classification
Metal
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Florence E. and Horace L. Mayer, 1978
Accession Number
1978.348.2
Tags
Art Historical Context
This enchanting bronze hand mirror, crafted by an unknown artist in the 12–13th century,ails from the Islamic world and exemplifies the era's masterful metalworking traditions. Measuring just 8 11/16 inches (22 cm) in diameter a slender 3/8 inch (1 cm) thick, it was designed for personal use, reflecting both daily life and spiritual beliefs in medieval Islamic societies. Now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic Department (gift of Florence E. and Horace L. Mayer, 1978), it invites visitors to ponder the fusion of utility and artistry. Forged through casting—pouring molten bronze...