A VERY RARE GOLD-INLAID IRON MIRROR LATE EASTERN HAN DYNASTY/EARLY SIX DYNASTIES PERIOD

the large mirror of flat circular shape, the decoration in the form of a partially cut-out thin circular gold sheet laid onto the reverse and depicting two central figures positioned at the opposite ends of a central axis, each seated on a throne supported by a lotus flower and flanked by winged attendants and mythical creatures alternating with carriages drawn by several horses, the details finely engraved, the large hemispherical knop similarly covered with gold sheet, the reflective surface with traces of corrosion 

Chinese Gold and Silver in the Carl Kempe Collection, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, 1954-55, cat. no. 32.

Chinese Gold, Silver and Porcelain: the Kempe Collection, Asia House Gallery, New York, 1971, cat. no. 13, an exhibition touring the United States and shown also at nine other museums.  

Bo Gyllensvärd, Chinese Gold and Silver in the Carl Kempe Collection, Stockholm, 1953, pl. 32.

Bo Gyllensvärd, 'A Botanical Excursion in the Kempe Collection', Bulletin of the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, no. 37, 1965, pl. 18b.

Chinese Gold and Silver in the Carl Kempe Collection, The Museum of Art and Far Eastern Antiquities in Ulricehamn, Ulricehamn, 1999, pl. 30.

The iron surface has corroded with shallow pitting on the reflective side. There is a 1 cm chip along the rim that has been filled in with a soft brown wax. The iron surface has been covered in a clear protective varnish to prevent further corrosion. The gold surface is in very good condition with almost no loss or breaks to the gold. The gold inlay has adhered tightly to the corroded surface and the gold around the knop has sealed tightly around. The overall condition is quite good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."