The concept of the magic mirror in Japanese culture holds a significant place. Known as "Enchanted Mirror" or "Magic Mirror", this mystical device is believed to possess supernatural powers. The magic mirror is considered a spiritual tool used for divination and clairvoyance. It is believed to have the ability to provide glimpses of the past, present, and future, and communicate with spirits and deities. The origins of the magic mirror in Japan can be traced back to ancient Chinese culture and Buddhism. In Japanese folklore, the mirror is believed to be a gateway to the spirit world or a connection between the earthly realm and the divine.
Japanese Mirrors
In Japanese folklore, the mirror is believed to be a gateway to the spirit world or a connection between the earthly realm and the divine. It is commonly associated with Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan, where mirrors are revered as sacred objects. Traditionally, the magic mirror is made of polished metal, often bronze or copper, with intricate designs engraved on its surface.
An ancient metalwork tradition for ritual and for function
By Art Research Center, Ritsumeikan University
By: Art Research Center, Ritsumeikan University in collaboration with Kyoto Women's University
Mirror with pine tree and cranes by YAMAMOTO ALLOY WORKS CO., LTD. and Photo by Stria photographicsOriginal Source: YAMAMOTO ALLOY WORKS CO., LTD.
Mirrors are usually considered primarily as implements for personal grooming but, in Japan, mirrors were used for far more than reflecting one's image. Within Japanese culture, mirrors are one of the most potent symbols of power, revered as sacred objects representing the gods. Mirrors are also admired as artistic objects, as they have intricate pictorial designs on their backs. The technology needed to cast metal mirrors was introduced to Japan from China around the Yayoi period (ca. 3rd century BCE–3rd century CE). During the Heian period (794–1185), the mirror was included as part of the elaborate toiletry sets used by aristocrats. Though the earliest mirrors were fashioned after Chinese mirrors, in time mirror makers began to depict Japanese style designs and motifs from the Japanese natural world. In ancient times, round mirrors typically had a knob in the center of the back, through which a cord would be strung. Later, as the hand mirror (a round mirror with a rectangular protruding handle) came into use, designs became more pictorial, covering the entire back. These mirrors with designs on the back became popular among commoners in the Edo period, and the motifs used in these designs became diversified.
Triangular-rimmed mirror with divine animals by YAMAMOTO ALLOY WORKS CO., LTD. and Photo by Stria PhotographicsOriginal Source: YAMAMOTO ALLOY WORKS CO., LTD.
When European-style glass mirrors became popular during the Meiji period (1868–1912), bronze mirrors gradually fell out of use. Metalsmiths specializing in mirror making also began to disappear rapidly from Japanese society. The production of bronze mirrors would likely have ended all together were it not for the continuing production of mirrors dedicated to shrines and temples. After a metal mirror is cast using an alloy of tin or copper (known as "white bronze" or "bronze," respectively), the surface is ground and polished flat before being finally plated with gold. It remains an important task of the mirror master today to re-polish mirrors, including sacred mirrors. In the past there were various types of artisans for each stage of mirror production, including polishing mirrors. Today, however, professional mirror metalsmiths must handle every aspect of mirror making themselves.
Mirror
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- https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/60139
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The craftsmanship and artistry involved in creating these mirrors are highly regarded. These mirrors are usually small and handheld, designed to be easy to carry and use during divination rituals. To access the powers of the magic mirror, one must possess the necessary skills and knowledge in divination practices. This includes proper meditation techniques, rituals, and an understanding of the symbols and patterns reflected in the mirror's surface. The use of the magic mirror in Japan extends beyond divination. It has also been associated with beauty and vanity. In Japanese literature and art, the image of a woman gazing into a mirror symbolizes self-reflection, introspection, and the pursuit of inner beauty. In recent times, the magic mirror has captured the imagination of the entertainment industry. Popular media, such as anime and video games, often depict characters using enchanted mirrors as a means of communication, transportation, or accessing hidden realms. The magic mirror continues to hold a special place in Japanese culture, embodying the country's rich spiritual traditions and artistic expressions. Whether through divination, self-reflection, or creative storytelling, the magic mirror remains a fascinating and alluring element of Japanese folklore and mythology..
Reviews for "Using a Magic Mirror to Connect with Ancestors in Japanese Tradition"
1. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars - I was really excited to try the Magic Mirror Japanese method, but I ended up feeling disappointed. The program promised a quick and easy way to learn Japanese, but it simply didn't deliver. The videos were confusing and not well-explained, and the software was glitchy and frustrating to use. I felt like I wasn't making any progress and it just became a waste of time and money. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking to learn Japanese effectively.
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