Symbolism of Mirrors in Art From Ancient Times to the Present

Contains illustrations of mirrors dating from a mirror made in the second millennium before the common era to a postmodern mirror environment created in the late 1980s. The introduction summarizes the symbolism and uses of mirrors in art, discussing mirrors and deities, mirrors and death, mirrors in relation to power and continuity, and the special connection between mirrors and women, especially goddesses. Eighty-five mirrors and images of mirrors are pictured accompanied by descriptive texts. The research materials reflect interdisciplinary sources including art history, anthropology, comparative religion, folklore and mythology. An additional feature of the volume is the linking of mirrors with prose and poetry quotations from widely ranging sources (Zen koans to Woody Allen). With photographs and line drawings.