Seventeen bronze mirrors from the Han and Tang Dynasties unearthed in the eastern suburb of Xi’an were analyzed using metallographic microscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry and Raman spectrometry to study their microscopic structures and corrosion characteristics. The results show that while the Han and Tang mirrors differed in shape and size, their main alloy compositions were similar, consisting primarily of high-tin bronze. All of the mirrors exhibited as-cast microstructures with comparable micro-morphology. The microstructure was composed of the (α+δ) eutectoid and the α phase, appearing as irregular islands and bands. Variation in cooling rates resulted in differences in the metallographic structure of bronze mirrors. All the samples displayed a stratified corrosion structure consisting of a surface corrosion layer, oxide layer, free copper deposition layer, corrosion transition layer and the underlying alloy. Lead in the bronze mirrors was the first component to corrode, and the eutectoid phase was corroded prior to the α phase. Corrosion also led to significant increase in Sn and O contents. These corrosion characteristics correspond closely with those expected from long-term burial environments. The results provide valuable references for understanding the micro-and macro-corrosion characteristics of high-tin bronzes in different environments and established a scientific basis for the preservation and restoration of bronze mirrors.