Abstract
The number of ancient iron mirrors excavated in China is far smaller than those of ancient bronze mirrors. Fortunately, we were honored to have a chance to analyze some of the rare ancient iron mirrors excavated in China. Un-corroded parts were subjected to a structural observation under an optical microscope and a chemical composition analysis with EPMA (Electron Probe Micro Analyzer). Based on the results, the production techniques of the ancient iron mirrors were discussed. The results were as follows. 1. The iron mirror produced during the later Han Period showed a mixture of ferrite and pearlite particles. The possibility that the iron mirror was made by forging small pieces of pig iron, which process accompanied decarburization, can be inferred. Traces of silicon and phosphorous were found as impurities in the uncorroded alloy. 2. The iron mirror excavated from the tomb of the Sui period showed the structure of single-phase ferrite. It is inferred to be made by forging wrought iron which had been decarburized enough. Traces of silicon, phosphorous and sulfur were found as impurities in the uncorroded alloy.
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