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Mirror with the Image of Avalokitesvara
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
Mirrors, along with swords and jade, were among the most important symbols of power. It is thought that mirrors held power through their ability to catch and reflect light. This rare trapezoid-shaped example is engraved with an image of the Avalokitesvara, Bodhisattva of Compassion and was used as a part of Buddhist rituals.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineMirror with the Image of Avalokitesvara (백동 관음보살 경상 [白銅觀音菩薩文鏡像]), early 1900s. Korea, Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). Bronze with incised Buddhist designs; overall: 15.7 x 13 cm (6 3/16 x 5 1/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Director's Contingent Fund, 1918.531
