Mongolian shamanic mirror Four Seasons 32 millimeters

Recently made brass mirror from Mongolia with a diameter of 32 millimeters. This mirror comes to us via our friends at Shaman Bazar.

The style of this mirror belongs to the group of so called 'numismatic amulets'; amulets and talismans manufactured in a coin-like style. This style became widespread during the Western Han Dynasty (2th century BCE). Inititally this started with the use of coins from former ruling dynasties and empires (coins that were of no longer use as currency) as talismans and amulets. Over time this developed into casting coins especially for this purpose (with symbols for good luck, wellwishes and prosperity). Nowadays coin-like, numismatic amulets are well-known as a commodity in itself. Think for example about the Feng Shui 'lucky coins'. 

With the evolving of the numismatic amulets also another usage became widespread; the transferring of numismatic symbolism to other objects, such as shamanic mirrors. This mirror is a good example of such a numismatic amulet.

This mirror is decorated with four Chinese symbols, that form a traditional goodwish. Together they mean; "protection and good luck, for all four seasons'

Read more about the origin, design and usage of (shamanic) mirrors in the general description of our webshop collection "Mirrors and Melongs".