Antique Mirrors
An antique mirror does double duty: it reflects light and space while serving as a striking decorative feature in its own right. Our dealers offer overmantel mirrors, pier glasses, dressing table mirrors, convex mirrors, cheval mirrors and wall mirrors in gilded, mahogany, walnut and ebonised frames.
Georgian, Regency, Victorian and Edwardian examples are all available, along with French and Continental pieces. Original mercury glass plate, with its characteristic soft, slightly mottled reflection, is prized by collectors.
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An 18Th Century Carved Italian Mirror
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Large Scale Georgian Inlaid Toilet Mirror
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A Very Large 19thc French Gilt Frame Mirror
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Large Antique Continental Porcelain Easel Mirror
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A superb pair of 18thC gilt frame mirrors
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A Fine Adam Period Wall Mirror
Fine Edwardian Round Gilt Mirror
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Large Antique Victorian Quality Giltwood and White Painted Overmantle Mirror
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Oak Leaner Mirror Pier Table Mirror H174cm
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Large Antique Wall Mirror Overmantle Mirror H170cm
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Superb Large Victorian Gilt Wall Mirror Overmantel H164cm
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Antique 19th Century Gold Leaf Wall Mirror 94x122cm
French Antique Wall Mirror H140cm
Antique Rococo Foxed Gilded Mirror 90x79cm
Slim Antique French Pier Mirror H153cm
Wonderful Victorian Gilt Mirror
Victorian Oval Gilt Mirror
Art and Crafts Copper Mirror
A Superb Mahogany & Decorated Toilet Mirror
Large Antique Giltwood Wall Mirror 122/158vm
English Antique Gilt Wall Mirror Overmantel H169cm
French Napoleonic Giltwood Wall Mirror H100cm
Wonderful Victorian Gilt Mirror
Arts and Crafts Oval Copper Mirror
Antique Painted Pier Mirror Wall Mirror h107cm
Victorian Pier Mirror Leaner Mirror H160cm
The Role of Mirrors in Interior Design
Mirrors have been used to enhance interiors since the 17th century. Placed opposite a window, a large mirror doubles the natural light in a room. Above a fireplace, an overmantel mirror creates a focal point and adds height. In a hallway, a pier glass between windows gives the illusion of greater space and provides a last-minute check before leaving the house.
When buying an antique mirror, consider both the frame and the glass. Frames range from the restrained elegance of Georgian gilt and gesso to the exuberant carving of Victorian rococo revival. The condition of gilding varies; worn gilt with the red bole showing through is part of the character and many collectors prefer it to re-gilding.
Original Glass vs. Replacement
Original mercury glass plate has a distinctive quality. The reflection is softer and warmer than modern glass, with a gentle foxing (dark spots) that develops over time. Many buyers actively seek mirrors with original glass for this reason. However, if you need a clear, functional reflection, replacement glass is perfectly acceptable and should be priced accordingly.
Hanging and Positioning
Antique mirrors can be heavy. Use appropriate fixings for your wall type: heavy-duty hooks or French cleats for plasterboard, masonry bolts for brick. Hang mirrors at eye level for practical use or higher for decorative effect. Pairs of mirrors work particularly well in symmetrical rooms, flanking a central feature such as a doorway or fireplace.