Two Etruscan Mirrors in San Francisco

Abstract

THE two engraved Etruscan bronze mirrors' shown in figures I and 2 (pl. 78) have recently come into my possession. They are both of the familiar tanged type, once provided with handles of a different material, usually perishable. The rims of both mirrors are curved up to form a hollow on the reverse, or principal engraved side, in a manner that is characteristic for Etruscan mirrors of the fourth century B.c. and later. Mirror No. I (pl. 78, fig. I) has a chalky, light greenish-brown patina, whereas in mirror No. 2 (pl. 78, fig. 2) the patina is a bluishgreen. In both specimens, the surface is quite lustrous except for some patches of efflorescence. There are no restorations, but there are some cracks, and, as a protection against further damage or possible loss of the broken portions, adhesive tape has at some time been applied to the reflecting sides of both mirrors. Mirror No. 2 is in a far better state of preservation than mirror No. i. On these, as on many other bronze mirrors,2 there is a small depression or hollow at the center of the engraved side.