Antique and vintage mirrors bring elegance, charm, and a sense of history to any room. Mirrors are beautiful statement pieces that create space in the home, whilst offering a touch of nostalgia and artistic craftsmanship. Their allure lies in the intricate designs, unique shapes, and materials used, making them versatile additions to many interiors and highly desirable pieces for those who appreciate true vintage decor.
The Allure of Vintage Mirrors
The appeal of vintage mirrors is twofold: their timeless style and the skilled craftsmanship that goes into creating them. Unlike many modern mirrors, which are often mass-produced, antique and vintage mirrors were frequently handcrafted. This results in unique detailing and high-quality materials. These mirrors can range from elegant Victorian pieces with ornate, gold-plated frames to sleek Art Deco mirrors with angular shapes and metallic finishes. From the patina on glass, to elaborate framing, you’ll find each vintage mirror has its own characteristics, making it a focal point in any room.
Types of Vintage Mirrors
Antique and vintage mirrors come in a variety of styles, each reflecting the design trends of its time. Some of the most popular types include:
Baroque and Rococo Mirrors: These are typically adorned with elaborate carvings, floral patterns, and gilded frames, often featuring gold leaf. They were popular during the 17th and 18th centuries and are perfect for adding a touch of opulence to a space.
Victorian Mirrors: These mirrors often feature wooden frames with intricate detailing, such as floral and vine motifs. Victorian mirrors add warmth and a sense of luxury, making them ideal for traditional interiors.
Art Deco Mirrors: Known for their geometric shapes, metallic finishes, and streamlined design, Art Deco mirrors bring a stylish, modern edge. Popular in the 1920s and 1930s, these mirrors are perfect for adding a glamorous touch.
Mid-Century Modern Mirrors: Characterised by their minimalist design and simple shapes, these mirrors often have wooden or brass frames. They work well in contemporary interiors and add a retro charm without overwhelming the decor.
Decorating with Vintage Mirrors
Adding a vintage mirror to your decor is an easy way to bring character and depth to a home. Key hanging locations can include above a fireplace or the bed, to create a grand focal point. Layering vintage mirrors in different sizes and shapes on living room walls, or hallways can create a captivating gallery effect. This adds dimension and visual interest. For small spaces like bathrooms or landings, vintage mirrors add light and make the space feel more open plan.
Caring for Vintage Mirrors
Because of their age, antique and vintage mirrors often require careful maintenance. The glass may have a patina or light tarnish that give it character, but it’s important to avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the frame or glass. A soft cloth and a mild cleaner are usually sufficient. Wood or gilded frames may need occasional polishing to keep their lustre, while metal frames can benefit from a gentle wipe-down with a dry cloth to prevent tarnishing.
Vintage Mirrors at Village Vintage
At Village Vintage, we have a large selection of antique and vintage mirrors vintage mirrors available to view at our secure storage unit:
Antique French Wall Mirror
This small and perfectly formed antique 18c or 19c French or Italian gilt and gesso wall mirror is beautifully detailed. With a gilded frame, at some point in its lifetime it has been over painted in a wonderful deep red paint. Over time, this paint has worn back to reveal the original gilt underneath once again. With a heavy plate and some typical foxing, this mirror is 36cm in height and 31cm in width.
19th Century Gilt and Gesso Mirror
In superb quality, this original French 19c gilt and gesso framed mirror is ideal for any room. This mirror is 45cm in height and 35cm in width.
Vintage Italian Painted Oval Mirror
In excellent condition, this eye-catching piece has a hand decorated frame, painted in a floral Dutch manner and is nicely detailed. With wonderfully contrasting colours, this is a versatile addition to any room in the house. Height 60cm and width 50cm.
Large Antique French Gilt Gesso Wall Mirror
This very large and striking antique French wall hanging mirror with elaborate gilt gesso and simulated walnut paint effect decorated frame is a real eye-catching piece. In good original condition, it measures 90cm by 66cm.
Large Antique French 19C Gilt Gesso Wall Mirror
This stunning and very large antique French 19c gilt gesso arched shoulder wall hanging mirror is a statement piece. Displaying the perfect level of distress to both the frame and the mirror plate, this cannot be replicated and is very desirable. Height 87cm and width 62cm.
Vintage Wrought Iron Wall Mirror
This unusual and striking vintage wall mirror is made of solid wrought iron. Heavy and unique, it’s wonderfully decorated in scrolling, organic vine and vine leaves and makes a wonderful focal piece in any room.
Moroccan Bone and Brass Decorated Wall Mirror
In excellent vintage condition, this petite and striking mirror can be hung landscape or portrait. Hand-made from stunningly decorated bone with hand-coloured patterns, mounted in silver and brass, this unusual piece is one of a kind and suitable for any room.
Get in Touch
Here at Village Vintage, right on the Essex and Suffolk border, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. Would you like to view any of our antique and vintage mirrors vintage mirrors? We can arrange for you to see these in person, simply fill out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook. We look forward to hearing from you!
