Discusses the use of contemporary analytical techniques to determine the chemical properties of a Han dynasty bronze mirror. To understand the bronze mirror from a methodological point of view, this experimental report provides a basic understanding of Han Dynasty bronze mirrors. The methods used include: fast neutron activation, x-ray fluorescence, metallographic microscopy, electron scanning probe, and x-ray diffraction structural analysis. The analysis revealed that the component and structure of the body and surface of the bronze mirror are not identical. Therefore the bronze mirror was not manufactured at one time; it was cast to be a mirror body, and then was refined on the surface. -- AATA