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.
Early George III Large Oval Border Glass Mirror
Regency Giltwood Convex Wall Mirror
Burr Walnut Wall Mirror
Antique Victorian Painted Adjustable Shaving Stand Vanity Mirror
Large Antique Victorian Mahogany and Marble Topped Swing Mirror
Antique George III Mahogany Dressing Table Mirror
Mid 19th Century French Rococo Style Giltwood Wall Mirror
Superb Regency Triple Plate Mirror
Exceptional Quality Antique 19th Century Victorian Carved Oak Wall Mirror
Outstanding Quality Antique Edwardian Carved Gilded Frame Wall Mirror
French Gilt Trumeau Mirror
Fine Quality Antique Walnut Cheval Mirror
18th Century Mahogany Chippendale Mirror
Fine 18th Century Mahogany Chippendale Mirror
Early 18th Century Walnut & Giltwood Mirror
Antique King Of Bavaria’s Large Carved Oak Hunting Lodge Overmantle Wall Mirror
George II giltwood and gesso pier mirror
George III Period Oval Shaped Mirror
George III Carved Giltwood Wall Mirror
Antique 19th Century Chippendale Style Carved Mahogany & Gilt Wall 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.