noun
model; pattern; paragon; exemplar
Refers to an ideal example or standard to be followed. Often used in formal or literary contexts, such as 鑑とする (to take as a model).
彼の生き方は多くの人の鑑となった。
His way of life became a model for many people.
この作品は日本文学の鑑
This work can be called a paragon of Japanese literature.
模範 is a more common, everyday word for 'model' or 'example', while 鑑 is more literary and emphasizes an ideal to aspire to.
手本 is a practical model or example to copy, such as a handwriting sample, whereas 鑑 is an abstract, lofty exemplar.
Originally meaning 'mirror' (as in 鏡), the character 鑑 extended to mean 'something that reflects the truth' and thus 'model' or 'example'. The spelling 鑑 is now standard for this sense.