Classical World, Etruria, ca. 4th to 3rd century BCE. Wow! An incredible bronze hand mirror, its round face decorated with detailed, incised figures showing three women standing in front of a series of columns - the story of the Judgment of Paris. Each woman is clearly drawn, their individual characteristics shining through the ages in costume choices and even facial expression. The long, thin handle terminates in the head of animal - possibly a deer or a wolf, with large eyes, a long snout, and long, curved ears that are pressed flat to the sides of the head. Size: 5" W x 9.95" H (12.7 cm x 25.3 cm); 11.15" H (28.3 cm) on included custom stand.

The Judgment of Paris has survived until today thanks to the Iliad. Eris, goddess of discord, throws an apple for "the fairest" of the gods of Olympus. Zeus gives Paris, a Trojan prince, the task of judging which goddess deserves the apple. He looks between Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena, ultimately choosing Aphrodite when she promises him the most beautiful woman in the world - Helen of Troy, wife of the Greek king Menelaus. Aphrodite's promise sparks the Trojan War. Elaborate mirrors with stories featuring the gods were popular items for women in ancient Etruria.

See a similar example at the Louvre: https://www.louvre.fr/en/oeuvre-notices/mirror-0

Provenance: ex-private T.S. collection, San Diego County, California, USA, acquired between 25 and 40 years ago

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#140612

In two pieces, separated at handle. Rim of the mirror, particularly on one side, is partially corroded. Losses to edges. Heavy deposits on the formerly polished mirror surface. Mottled dark brown and faint green patina. Motifs are in excellent condition.