116 - (R) A BRONZE MIRROR WITH ANIMALS AND GRAPEVINES, TANG DYNASTY, CHINA 7TH TO 8TH

(R) A BRONZE MIRROR WITH ANIMALS AND GRAPEVINES, TANG DYNASTY, CHINA 7TH TO 8TH Dimensions: Height 10,5 cm Wide 10,5 cm Depth 0,8 cm Weight: 1096 grams with base A Chinese bronze mirror of circular form, its decorated reverse organised around a central pierced knob and densely cast with animals moving among scrolling grapevines. The compact relief creates a richly textured surface in which beasts, leaves, tendrils and bunches of fruit interlock across the field, enclosed by a clearly defined outer border. The bronze has developed a varied aged patina that softens the relief while leaving the principal motifs legible. Animal-and-grapevine mirrors are among the most distinctive decorative types associated with the Tang dynasty. Their imagery reflects the cosmopolitan visual culture of the period, when motifs and luxury goods travelled along the trade routes linking China with Central and Western Asia. Grapevines became a compelling ornamental device because their curling tendrils could bind an entire composition together. Although the polished face of a mirror served an everyday purpose, the reverse offered a concentrated field for sophisticated metalwork. Here the energetic animal forms and continuous vine scroll transform a functional object into a miniature world of movement, abundance and Tang-period decorative imagination. For lots marked with (R), a 19% VAT is added to the combined hammer price and commission. This VAT is waived for: - Private buyers outside the EU who officially export the items.- Businesses inside the EU holding a valid VAT number, exporting to their home country. Proper export documentation is required to waive the VAT