Museo Civico Archeologico - Etruscan mirror with seduction scene

Ancient mirrors are composed of a polished metal disc that reflects light. The backs are often decorated with scenes of everyday life or myths, offering a glimpse into the world of the past. This Etruscan mirror depicts a loving encounter between a girl and a boy who offers her a flower, while in his other hand he holds an ointment jar. The girl holds a cista, a container for storing toiletries or cosmetics. The Etruscan inscriptions between the two figures allow us to recognize the young man as Croesus, the legendary king of Lydia.