Abstract

Abstract This chapter investigates the shiny black patina on ancient Chinese bronze mirrors and other wares. Seventy-two mirrors and a few score of weapons, utensils and ornaments have been examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, etc. The chemical composition of the surface layer or patina is found to be distinctly different from that of the bulk alloy. The very top film is transparent and compact, and is highly corrosion-resistant. The chief component of this film is tin oxide. It is documented in the 2nd century BC that mirrors and some other wares were rubbed with a powder called Xuan Xi to make the surface bright and white, and this was the cause of formation of the original tin-rich layer. This study examines the evidence for Xuan Xi. The results of examination of the black patina, now on the objects, show that it was formed naturally over a long period by oxidation of the original tin-rich mirror surface.

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