Rare Ancient Roman Silver Hand Mirror, 1st–3rd century AD.

A Rare Ancient Roman Silver Hand Mirror.
Roman, 1st–3rd century AD.

Measures 14cm in diameter.

This exceptionally rare silver hand mirror dates from the Roman Empire, between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. A 19th-century collection label bears the handwritten inscription: ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo Romain’, indicating that the mirror was found in Gas, a commune in the Eure-et-Loir department of northern France.

The mirror is elegantly mounted on a custom metal display stand featuring a turned serpentine column base, enhancing its presentation and historical significance.

In fine, excavated condition. Mirrors like this are usually silvered bronze, it is exceptionally rare to find them in silver.

Provenance; Old French collection inferred by historic label.

Comparable Examples

The British Museum houses several notable ancient Roman silver hand mirrors, including:
1. Bursa Treasure Mirror – Part of the Bursa Treasure, a 1st-century AD Roman silver hoard discovered near Bursa, Turkey. This collection includes a large silver mirror, reflecting the luxurious personal items used by elite Roman women.
2. Chaourse Treasure Mirror – Found in 1883 near Chaourse, France, this 2nd–3rd century AD hoard contains various silver objects, including a silvered bronze mirror, offering insights into the affluent lifestyles of Roman society.

These mirrors exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship and refined artistry of Roman silverwork, providing a glimpse into the daily grooming practices and material culture of the Roman elite.