Mongolian shamanic mirror Four Seasons 32 millimeters

The use of metal mirrors as an indispensable attribute for people dealing with the worlds of the spirits on a regular base, such as professional shamans and priests, is already known for more than 6000 years. As such they have been found in excavations all over (especially) the Eurasian continent. From Tibet, Siberia, Nepal to China.

In different regions, the shamanic mirror is known with different names, such as kuzungu, toli, panaptu, melong, darpana or chinza. But regardless of the name, the mirror is attributed the same sacred functions in all these regions. Such as; protection against malignant forces, amplifying the power of the heart from the one wearing it, being a guide and protector in other worlds, being a spirit container and assisting in oraclework and scrying. 

The shamanic mirror is one of the most important attributes in the tradition of Spirit of Wolf and is worn during all kinds of rituals and healing work. 

A shamanic mirror can be made in different shapes and patterns, and be decorated with all kinds of motives and symbolism. The frontside is often very shiny and should be regularly polished to be able to reflect all negative influences away. 

Shamanic mirrors can be made from different kinds of metal. The diverse metals are attributed certain correspondences such as: 
- Brass or bronze, connected to the Sun
- Silver, connected to the Moon
- Copper, connected to Underworld Sun

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'.

This mirror comes from Mongolia and comes to us via our friends at Shaman Bazar. It is made of brass and has a diameter of 32 millimeters.

Sold per piece.