Scrying mirror

The Scrying Mirror: The Portal of Obsidian Light

At Etheric Sanctum, we invite you to look beyond the surface of the seen world. Our Scrying Mirrors (also known as Speculums) are crafted from deep, non-reflective black glass or polished obsidian, designed to create a void for the mind to wander.

Unlike a standard mirror that reflects the physical body, a scrying mirror is designed to absorb light, quieting the optical nerves and allowing the "inner eye" to take over. It is a bridge between the conscious mind and the vast ocean of the subconscious—a tool for those who seek to commune with the shadows, the spirits, and the secrets of the future.

A History of the Dark Reflection

The practice of catoptromancy (divination by mirror) is a thread that runs through the tapestry of human history. The most famous scrying mirror in occult history belonged to Dr. John Dee, the court astrologer to Queen Elizabeth I, who used a polished obsidian mirror brought from the Aztec Empire to communicate with angelic beings.

In Ancient Mexico, obsidian mirrors were the primary attribute of the god Tezcatlipoca, whose name translates to "Smoking Mirror." He was the lord of the night, ancestral memory, and the unseen. In Ancient Greece, Thessalian witches were said to write their petitions in blood on mirrors to catch the moon’s reflection and see the future. Across various cultures, the "dark pool" has always been the preferred medium for those who wish to see what is hidden in the light.

Historical & Traditional Uses

Historically, the scrying mirror was a tool of high ritual magic and a bridge to the "Otherworld."

Spirit Evocation: In the Goetic and Solomonic traditions, the dark mirror was often placed within a triangle of manifestation. The practitioner would "call" a spirit to appear within the depths of the mirror, using it as a safe window through which to communicate without the entity entering the physical room.

Moonlight Charging: Traditionally, scrying mirrors were "cleansed" by the light of the full moon and "fed" with infusions of mugwort or wormwood to enhance their visionary properties.

Locating the Lost: Historically, "cunning folk" used dark mirrors to find lost objects or to identify a thief. By staring into the glass until a "mist" formed, they would wait for a face or a location to materialize within the clouds.

Shadow Integration: In various esoteric lineages, the mirror was used as a tool for "facing the self." By gazing at one's own obscured reflection in the dark, the practitioner would confront their "Shadow Self"—the hidden aspects of their own psyche.

Modern Uses in the Contemporary Craft

For the modern seeker at Etheric Sanctum, the scrying mirror is a sophisticated tool for meditation and intuitive development.

Gazing Meditation: Use the mirror as a focal point to enter a deep trance state. By softening your gaze on the black surface, you can bypass the "analytical" mind, making it easier to receive psychic impressions or creative inspiration.

Ancestral Communication: Place the mirror on an ancestor altar flanked by two white candles. Use the void of the mirror as a "doorway" to sit in silence with those who have passed, inviting their wisdom to surface in your mind's eye.

Astral Travel Prep: Many practitioners use the scrying mirror as a "launchpad" for astral projection. By visualizing themselves stepping through the glass into a different plane of existence, they use the mirror as a symbolic portal.

Dream Incubation: Before sleep, spend ten minutes scrying with a specific question in mind. The "dark input" often triggers vivid, prophetic dreams that provide the answer while you sleep.

How to Use Your Scrying Mirror

Environment: Work in a dim room. Place the mirror on a stand or flat surface.

Lighting: Place a candle on either side of the mirror, but ensure the flames do not reflect directly in the glass. You want a soft, ambient glow.

The Gaze: Look into the mirror, not at it. Relax your eyes and avoid blinking as much as possible.

The Mist: It is common to see a gray "mist" or "cloud" form on the surface. This is the sign that your physical sight is fading and your psychic sight is opening. Let the images form naturally within the mist.

Important Disclaimer

This product is sold strictly as a curio for display and collection purposes only. Etheric Sanctum makes no claims regarding the supernatural, prophetic, or communicative properties of this item.

Psychological Note: Scrying can lead to intense introspective experiences. Use with a grounded and clear mind.

Maintenance: Keep the surface clean with a soft cloth. When not in use, it is traditional to cover the mirror in a black silk cloth to "close" the portal and keep it from absorbing stray energy.

Fragility: This is made of glass or natural stone; it is fragile and can break if dropped. Handle with care.

Intent: Results depend entirely on the skill and belief of the individual practitioner.