Lot 195. A bronze 'Phoenix and Mythical Beasts' octafoil mirror, Tang Dynasty (618-907). Width 5 1/4 in., 13.3 cm. Estimate 15,000 — 20,000 USD. Lot sold 18,750 USD. Photo Sotheby's 2014

the pierced central knob cast as a crouching beast, encircled by alternating phoenix and mythical beasts, interspersed with floral scrolls, the raised border with further birds, insects and flowers, the silvery-gray patina with green encrustation. 

Provenance: Old Japanese collection, circa 1980, by repute.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, New York, 18 march 2014