Classical bronze mirror from Argive workshop
National Archeological Museum, Athens, GreeceMaterial: Bronze
Date range: 460-450 BC
Origin: Argive workshop, Peloponnese, Greece (unknown provenance)
The mirror consists of a polished bronze disc supported by an elaborate stand featuring a standing female figure in Classical style drapery. The disc is framed by decorative elements including two doves perched at the top, floral rosettes around the sides, and bird figures along the rim, all cast in bronze with fine detail.
The doves at the top are particularly significant as sacred symbols of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, making this mirror not merely a functional object but one connected to divine beauty and feminine grace. Mirrors themselves were associated with Aphrodite's worship, as the goddess was often depicted holding or gazing into mirrors in Greek art.
The female figure stands on a rounded base with claw feet, her arms extended to support the mirror disc above. This type of elaborate mirror stand was a luxury item in ancient Greece, demonstrating the owner's wealth and refinement while serving the practical purpose of personal grooming and the cultural ideals of beauty in Classical Greek society.
Museum label reference: Bronze mirror of Argive workshop (Peloponnese). Unknown provenance. 460-450 BC (EAM/NAM X1579)
Original Text: Χάλκινο κάτοπτρο (καθρέφτης) αργειανού εργαστηρίου. Άγνωστης προέλευσης. Περ. 460-450 π.Χ.
Supplementary images:
Ancient Greek bronze mirror with caryatid figure and dove decorations from Peloponnese workshop
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