-Description Set of 2 Antique Meiji-Period Bronze Hand Mirrors (E-kagami) This is a beautiful set of 2 authentic bronze hand mirrors from Japan's Meiji period, featuring traditional Japanese decorative motifs filled with auspicious meanings. Larger Mirror •Signature: "Tensho Kagata Kawachi-no-kami Masayasu" (天正加賀田河内守正安) •Design: Horai-kyo (Horai Mirror style) depicting the mythical land of eternal youth. •Note on Size: This mirror is significantly larger than typical hand mirrors of its kind, offering a magnificent and commanding presence. •Symbolism: ◦Horai-kyo: A highly auspicious Japanese mirror that visualizes the utopia of immortality. It features a finely detailed design centered around a sprawling old pine tree, accompanied by cranes and tortoises (symbols of longevity), bamboo and plum blossoms (symbols of vitality), and rocks and waves (representing the divine islands of the immortals). This prestigious, high-status motif was traditionally used as a major component of bridal dowries. Smaller Mirror •Signature: "Tsuda Satsuma-no-kami Saku" / "Made by Tsuda Satsuma-no-kami" (津田薩摩守作) •Design: Sacred Bamboo (Nanten) tree. •Symbolism: ◦Nanten: A deeply cherished plant in Japan. Its name sounds like "Nan-ten" (turning hardships into good fortune), making it a powerful and time-honored symbol of luck and protection. -Historical Context of Japanese Bronze Mirrors (E-kagami) •Family Crests & Auspicious Motifs: Hand mirrors were not merely practical items; they were highly valued as bridal dowries and formal gifts. It was customary to engrave the owner’s family crest in the center, adorned with lucky motifs (birds, flowers, pine, bamboo, or plum blossoms) wishing for long life and family prosperity. -Condition All mirrors show an authentic antique patina and aging appropriate for their period.Please inspect the photos carefully. - Dimensions (in cm) Larger Mirror: W28 cm × H38.5 cm, Weight: 2160 g Smaller Mirror: W21.5 cm × H31.5 cm, Weight: 600 g - Shipping * This item will be safely packed and shipped directly from Japan. Items will be shipped via: * DHL Express * EMS * International Air Parcel Note: Shipping methods depend on the destination country, package size, and available options. - Custom Duties and Import Taxes * Import duties, taxes, and VAT are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. * Please check with your country's customs office to determine additional costs prior to bidding. * We cannot declare a lower value or mark the item as a "gift." Thanks, WAQWAQ Kyoto