It was a symbol of the Sun Goddess , but was also thought to embody the spirits of departed ancestors .
A central element ( set in front of the Shrine ) was a small round mirror made of polished silver , iron , bronze or nickel .
It was a symbol of the Sun Goddess , but was also thought to embody the spirits of departed ancestors .
A central element ( set in front of the Shrine ) was a small round mirror made of polished silver , iron , bronze or nickel .