Bronze Mirror

Southern China, circa 15th Century

The National Maritime Museum, Thailand

This bronze mirror was found at the Rang Kwian shipwreck site, located near Rang Kwian Island, Chonburi Province, at a depth of approximately 21 metres. The mirror, likely produced in southern China, dates to around the 15th century and reflects cultural interactions along Southeast Asian trade routes during the Ayutthaya period.

A total of three bronze mirrors were found at the site, including one with a unique human figure design on the back, which suggests a connection to Mahayana Buddhism. Mirrors such as these, decorated with intricate scenes, are believed to have served as amulets for sailors, intended to provide protection during their voyages. Based on the location of the mirror at the shipwreck site, there is also a possibility that the mirror was embedded into the ship’s hull. 

Despite illegal looting at the site before official excavations in 1978-1981, the mirrors were successfully restored with most remaining intact. Now housed in the National Maritime Museum, the bronze mirrors provide valuable insight into the trade relations, artistic influences and religious beliefs of the period.