Aberforth Dumbledore obtained the two-way mirror by purchasing it from Mundungus Fletcher. This acquisition was a key step in the mirror's journey after the death of its original owner, Sirius Black.
The Mirror's Journey to Aberforth
The two-way mirror was a magical artifact designed for instant, private communication between two people, each holding one half. Originally, one half was owned by Sirius Black, and the other was gifted to Harry Potter. However, following Sirius Black's tragic death, his half of the mirror did not remain with him or come into Harry's possession directly.
Here's how the mirror eventually found its way to Aberforth:
- Sirius Black's Ownership: Sirius Black used his half of the mirror to communicate with Harry Potter, hoping to provide a secure means of contact during difficult times.
- Mundungus Fletcher's Acquisition: After Sirius's passing, his possessions were disbursed. The mirror came into the possession of Mundungus Fletcher, an individual known for acquiring and trading magical items, sometimes through less than scrupulous means.
- Sale to Aberforth Dumbledore: Mundungus Fletcher subsequently sold this unique and valuable magical item to Aberforth Dumbledore, Albus Dumbledore's brother and the proprietor of the Hog's Head Inn.
The Two-Way Mirror's Fate and Significance
The transfer of the mirror to Aberforth occurred at a critical juncture in the wizarding world. Unbeknownst to Aberforth or Mundungus at the time of the sale, Harry Potter, who held the other half, had previously smashed his mirror in 1996. Harry did so out of grief and frustration, mistakenly believing he could not use it to contact Sirius's spirit because Sirius had not been carrying his half of the mirror when he died.
Despite Harry's half being broken, Aberforth later used his acquired mirror to keep watch over Harry and his companions. This allowed him to offer crucial assistance and guidance during the intense events of the Second Wizarding War, most notably during the Battle of Hogwarts, by connecting with Harry through his shard of the mirror.
