Large, Indian metal alloy oval hand mirror in brass frame.
An early example with restrained decoration to the frame.
These extraordinary metal mirrors have great historical and cultural value and are thought to bring good luck.
The reflection given is soft, slightly murky and mystical.
If you are looking for a standard hand mirror reflection this is not for you.
The metal mirror is cracked, still a magical object.
Length 13,1/4'' or 332mm, weight 666 grams
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Aranmula kannadi, meaning the Aranmula mirror, is a handmade metal-alloy mirror, made in Aranmula, a small town in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India. They are produced by one extended family in Aranmula.
The exact metals used in the alloy are maintained as a Vishwakarma family secret. Metallurgists suggest that the alloy is a mix of copper and tin [Srinivasan 2008].
Unlike the normal ''silvered'' glass mirrors, it is a metal-alloy mirror or front surface reflection mirror, wh
...ich eliminates secondary reflections and aberrations typical of back surface mirrors.
It is polished for several days to achieve the mirror''s reflective surface.
In western culture a similar alloy was used for speculum mirrors, in occult circles thought to reveal otherwise invisible spirits and linked to witchcraft.
It was also used in early reflecting telescopes.
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Shipping / Postage cost is not included in my prices.
I ship worldwide and have much experience in international customs, packing and secure shipping.
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Payment accepted by Electronic Bank Transfer, bank transfer or Cheque in the post .
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Email me
andrew.nethercott@btopenworld.com
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Internal Reference: 200721
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA715009
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
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