Antique Mirrors Look Great…..Here’s Why

Antique Mirrors have become a very popular accessory in home decorating today. They have a warm glow and add charm to any décor. They are available in different styles usually dictated by the era in which they were made. In this article we will discuss three different styles. The first is a romantic and classic style called Baroque that was created during the Renaissance. The next is the less ornate style known as Rococo that became popular around the times of the American Revolution. The third is the Victorian which was a revival of older styles like Gothic but incorporated new manufacturing techniques , as well as new values and attitudes.

The first mirrors were made from volcanic glass and date back 8000 years and the oldest found so far are from ancient Turkey. Chinese and Indian mirrors were produced by combining copper with other metals but were so expensive only the wealthy could afford them. During the Renaissance, Italian craftsman perfected the a way of coating glass with tin and mercury and Venice became the manufacturing center for the world. Modern mirrors are produced by a process of depositing a thin layer of silver or aluminum to the back of glass, a process discovered by a German scientist in the 19th century.

Baroque mirrors are usually oval in shape with wooden frames gilded in gold or silver. They are ornately carved with curved shapes made mostly of oak. Walnut became popular in a later period. This style adds extravagance to your home and is meant to convey opulence and wealth. It lends itself to large heavy furnishings and goes well with wood paneling or wainscoting made up of a series of panels with geometric patterns. It is also often combined with tapestries.

Rococo styles developed from the earlier Baroque style but is lighter, smaller, and more playful. These mirrors have asymmetrical designs that are still ornate with scrolls, ovals, and knots. The name itself is a combination of the French words for rock and shell. This decorating style is much lighter and smaller. Mirrors were used sometimes to cover entire walls and in front of fireplaces during summer. Combine Rococo mirrors with wall sconces for candles, cushions on the floor, and wrought iron furniture.

The Victorian style is very popular because many older American homes were constructed during the period. Victorian mirrors were often machine made and therefore, more affordable for the working classes. The décor of the of that time reflected the new wealth of the period and new interests in exotic cultures and sciences. Combine these mirrors with plants, maps, books, and portraits.

Don’t overdo it with too many mirrors. One elaborate antique mirror piece can be the focal point of your room or add charm in unconventional setting like bathrooms. If you can’t afford a historic piece, look for reproductions in discount furniture stores or on the internet. Antique mirrors reflect light and can brighten up an entryway. You can also use mirrors to add interest to any style décor by varying shapes and sizes. You will no doubt enjoy your mirror whether it is Baroque, Rococo, or Victorian.

Camperdown Mews Antiques

Website: www.camperdownmewsantiques.com

Address: 212-220 Parramatta Rd Annandale NSW 2038

Phone: 02 9550 5554

That Vintage Shop

Website: www.thatvintageshop.com.au

Address: 395-397 Enmore Rd. Marrickville 2204

Phone: 02 9565 2944

Harrington Antiques

Website: www.harringtonantiques.com

Miguel Meirelles Antiques

Website: ww.meirelles.com.au

Address: 1379 Malvern Rd, Malvern, Victoria, 3144

Phone: 03 9822 6886

Fax: 03 9822 6825

Email: miguel@meirelles.com.au

Antique Sales and Restoration

Website: ww.meirelles.com.au

Address: 24 Albert Road South Melbourne

Victoria 3205 Australia

Phone: 03 9317 3500

Fax: 03 9317 3566

Email: info@antiquesales.com.au