A bronze 'Mythical Beasts' mirror with inscription, Sui-Early Tang dynasty. Estimation 10,000 — 15,000 USD. Photo Sotheby's.

the pierced central knob surrounded by four mythical beasts in pursuit of one another, encircled by an inscription written in kaishu, enclosed by raised borders of various geometric designs. Diameter 5 1/8  in., 13 cm

Provenance: Private Asian collection, circa 1980-90, by repute.

Notes:  Translation of the inscription:

(The mirror) is bright like the floating moon, and the material is embedded with the dark spirit. The clear sky reflects in the water, and the sunshine returns with solidified clarity.  Forever lasting, the mirror will purify your heart.

Sotheby's. Inscriptions: History as Art New York, 17 mars 2015, 01:30 PM