Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A traditional Japanese cast bronze hand mirror, known as an e-kagami, featuring a low-relief reverse design of a pine tree, bamboo, and stylized waves. The inscription on the right side bears a prestigious maker's signature, indicating it was crafted by a licensed master artisan of the Fujiwara guild.
Story
During the Edo period, these mirrors were prized bridal gifts symbolizing the purity of a woman's soul. The reflective face was polished with mercury and tin to a brilliant shine, while the reverse carried auspicious symbols of longevity and resilience.
Maker / Origin
The inscription reads 'Sato' or 'Oto' followed by 'Fujiwara Mitsunaga' (藤原光長). During the Edo period, the ruling Tokugawa shogunate granted prestigious honorary titles, such as 'Fujiwara' or 'Tenka-ichi' (First Under Heaven), to master bronze-casters to regulate quality and honor exceptional craftsmanship.
Condition & Value
The mirror shows significant age-related oxidation, with prominent green verdigris spots on both the decorated reverse and the handle. The reflective front face has lost its original polished sheen due to centuries of tarnish and corrosion, which is typical for excavated or long-stored bronze.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.