Magic mirror of Abu-l-Fadl Artuq Shah
Type:
Mirrors
Date:
1220s–1230s
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Turkey
Medium:
Bronze
Dimensions:
Diameter of 24 cm
Description:
This bronze mirror belonged to the Artuqid ruler Abu-l-Fadl Artuq Shah (r. 1225?–34) of Harput (eastern Turkey). The relief decoration on one side includes twelve signs of the zodiac, seven busts (likely representations of planets), and a central bird of prey (possibly representing the sun and/or the ruler himself). The inscription names Artuq Shah and gives information about his dynasty, extending back to its founder Artuq (d. 1090).
The purpose of this mirror was the practice of catoptromancy (from the Greek for "mirror divination"), specifically using the mirror to understand the zodiac and movements of the planets—and thereby to understand and control the future. Unfortunately for Artuq Shah, it did not help prevent his deposition in 1234 by the Seljuqs of Rum, who brought an end to the Artuqid branch in Harput.
The purpose of this mirror was the practice of catoptromancy (from the Greek for "mirror divination"), specifically using the mirror to understand the zodiac and movements of the planets—and thereby to understand and control the future. Unfortunately for Artuq Shah, it did not help prevent his deposition in 1234 by the Seljuqs of Rum, who brought an end to the Artuqid branch in Harput.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
8
Repository and Online Resources:
• The mirror is currently part of the David Collection in Copenhagen.
Image Credits:
Linda Safran
