Antique Japanese Bronze Tekagami Hand Mirror, Taisho, 1912-1926 | SKU: 26J-0621

Antique Japanese Bronze Tekagami Hand Mirror, Taisho, 1912-1926 | SKU: 26J-0621

A rare antique Japanese bronze hand mirror with an exquisitely cast landscape relief -- a museum-worthy collector's piece from the Taisho era.

A tekagami is a traditional Japanese hand mirror, cast in bronze and polished on one face to serve as a reflective surface. Long before glass mirrors became commonplace in Japan, these bronze discs -- known for their warm, slightly diffused reflection -- were prized household objects and treasured gifts. This example, dating to approximately 1912-1926, showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of Taisho-era Japanese metalwork. The reverse face is decorated with a richly detailed low-relief landscape: pine trees with finely feathered needles, cherry blossoms in full bloom, rolling mist-wrapped hills, a traditional rooftop nestled among the foliage, stylized clouds, diagonal rain lines that animate the scene, and an inscription in the lower field. A geometric form -- possibly a kite -- floats above the composition, adding a playful, seasonal dimension to the scene. The obverse is plain and smoothly worked, now carrying a deep, age-consistent patina. This is a genuine piece of Japanese antique metalwork with strong collector appeal.

Today, this tekagami makes a stunning decorative accent for a wide range of modern interiors. Displayed face-up on a minimalist shelf or entry table, the intricately cast landscape reads like a miniature bronze painting -- a natural focal point in Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic decor. Propped on a small easel, it functions beautifully as living room wall art or a bedroom accent piece. Its compact size and self-contained beauty also make it a unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese antiques and Asian art. Whether appreciated for its imagery, its history, or the meditative quality of its aged bronze surface, this mirror brings quiet distinction to any space.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taisho, approximately 1912-1926
• Material: Cast bronze with age patina
• Use: Personal grooming mirror (tekagami); traditional Japanese hand mirror
• Modern Use: Decorative shelf accent or easel display; living room or bedroom art object; unique gift for collectors of Japanese antiques
• Features: Circular disc with flat rectangular handle; reverse face cast with an intricate low-relief landscape including pine trees, cherry blossoms, stylized clouds, rain lines, a traditional rooftop, and an inscription; obverse face plain and smoothly worked; rich dark brown patina throughout consistent with age
• Dimensions: 8 1/4"W x 1/4"D x 12"H
• Condition: Excellent

A timeless piece of Japanese antique metalwork -- this tekagami hand mirror carries a century of beauty in every line of its cast bronze landscape.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.