This is an antique Japanese bronze hand mirror (tegami) featuring a wooden handle, dating to the Edo period. It bears the cast signature of the artisan Fujiwara Yoshikatsu.
The back of the bronze disc features a finely cast, deep relief design depicting a botanical motif resembling Nandina with leaves and berries, alongside stylized flowing water. The casting style and relief texture share characteristics with a signed mirror by the same artisan held in the collection of the University Art Museum, Tokyo University of the Arts. The reflective front surface has oxidized completely over time, developing a dark, natural patina.
Size:
Height: 22.0 cm / 8.66 in
Width: 12.8 cm / 5.04 in
Depth: 0.25 cm / 0.10 in
Weight: 154 g / 0.34 lbs
Condition:
The item shows significant signs of aging and historical use. The front mirror surface is heavily oxidized with a dark patina and surface scratches. The wooden handle has minor scuffs and natural wood grain variations. The cast back has small areas of green oxidation (verdigris) and tarnish in the crevices of the deep relief.
Please check the photos carefully for details.
