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.
18th Century Walnut Toilet Mirror
Large Regency Tryptich Gilt Overmantle Mirror
Large Early 19th Century Florentine Giltwood Mirror
A Very Large 19thc French Gilt Frame Mirror
Antique Edwardian Inlaid Rosewood Overmantel Mirror
Fine Quality Antique Victorian Mahogany Dressing Mirror
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Antique Quality Victorian Satin Birch Carved Swing Mirror
Antique Victorian 19th Century Carved Oak Free Standing Mirror
A Fine Adam Period Wall Mirror
An Empire Period Mahogany And Ormolu Mirror
Late 18th C Gilt Frame Wall Mirror
Fine 18th Century Walnut & Parcel Gilt Mirror
Large Scale Georgian Inlaid Toilet Mirror
Attractive Antique Edwardian Quality Carved Mahogany Cheval Mirror
Antique Victorian Quality Mahogany Cheval Mirror
Fine Regency Overmantle Mirror
Late 19th Century Giltwood Mirror
Fine Regency Mahogany Cheval Mirror
A Rare 18th Century Venetian Mirror
Early George III Large Oval Border Glass Mirror
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.