Placing antique mirrors in key areas like foyers, living rooms, or bedrooms can instantly transform a space. They strike the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern style. With their intricate designs, they enhance the aesthetics of the room while reflecting your personal style. 

The ancient Egyptians crafted mirrors from polished metal, while the Chinese and Greeks were known for using bronze and silver to create reflective surfaces. These early mirrors were not only functional, but also considered objects of mystical or symbolic significance. 

Today, old framed mirrors are revered for offering a unique glimpse into the past – apart from enhancing space and light. In this blog, we will explore how to incorporate antique mirrors into your home decor, blending history with contemporary style to create truly captivating spaces. 

5 Types of Mirrors 

Read on to learn more about each type, and how to incorporate them into your home decor. 

1. Baroque Mirrors

Emblematic of the 17th century, these originated in Italy and spread across Europe during the Baroque period. This style is recognised for its dramatic curves, intricate carvings, and motifs like scrolls, flowers, and vines. They were commonly found in palaces, churches, and aristocratic homes. 

To style Baroque mirrors effectively, place them in a room with high ceilings and classic furnishings. They pair well with antique furniture, luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk, and opulent chandeliers. They can also be used as the focal point in a grand foyer, or as a striking centrepiece in a traditional living room. 

2. Regency Mirrors

These vintage mirrors emerged during the early 19th century, coinciding with the Regency era in Britain (1811–1820). Often made from mahogany or rosewood, they have simple yet graceful detailing. The style favours symmetry, focusing on clean lines and simplicity – reflecting the neoclassical influences of the time. 

To style a Regency mirror, place it against a pale or neutral-toned wall. It works beautifully above a sideboard or console table. Its subtle elegance complements both classic wooden furniture and modern pieces. 

Enhance the look by pairing it with elegant accessories, such as porcelain vases or fine china. Use soft, neutral tones for the room’s old dressing table with mirror and curtains, to complete the refined style. 

3. Gilded Mirrors

Originating in the 18th century, these vintage framed mirrors are constructed from wood and coated in a thin layer of gold leaf or gilt. They often feature intricate details such as floral patterns, scrollwork, or acanthus leaves. These mirrors became highly sought-after during the Rococo period in France, and were later popularised in England and America. 

For a traditional look, pair an antique framed mirror with rich, antique furniture or vintage accessories. In a modern setting, use it to contrast minimalist decor. Its luxurious finish pairs well with velvet cushions, dark wood furniture, and subtle metallic accents – creating a harmonious blend of old-world grandeur and modern elegance. 

4. Venetian Mirrors

These originated from the Venetian region of Italy, particularly the island of Murano that was renowned for its glasswork. The mirrored surface often has a distinctive foggy or aged appearance, while the glasswork features delicate floral or geometric designs. 

To create a welcoming atmosphere, place Venetian antique mirrors in foyers or hallways. The reflective glass enhances light in the room, making it ideal for brightening darker spaces. To highlight their craftsmanship, pair them with sleek, minimalistic furnishings and accessories like soft cushions, elegant lamps, or neutral-toned vases. 

5. Art Deco Mirrors

The 1920s and 1930s reflected the modernist movement that embraced sleek lines, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials. These mirrors feature bold, angular designs with sharp, symmetrical lines. They are often framed in materials such as chrome, lacquered wood, or glass. 

To style Art Deco mirrors effectively, pair them with furniture that features geometric patterns or angular shapes – such as mirrored side tables or lacquered cabinets. These antique mirrors can be placed in areas where they reflect light from surrounding elements, like pendant lights or chandeliers. Complemented by velvet upholstery or chrome accents, an old dressing table with mirror reflects the era’s glamour. 

Antique Mirrors for Every Room 

This table highlights the best mirror styles for different rooms, and offers suggestions on incorporating them to enhance your decor. 

Room	Antique Mirror Style	Styling Tips
Living Room	Cheval Mirror, Convex Mirror	A full-length, freestanding design with an adjustable tilt provides practicality. The outward-curved glass creates unique reflections and adds a focal point to your space.
Bedroom	Oval Mirror, Framed Wall Mirror	The design features a soft, rounded shape that blends well with classic and modern decor. This vintage framed mirror can range from intricate to minimalist, enhancing the overall depth of your space.
Dining Room	Bevelled Edge Mirror, Sunburst Mirror	The design features smooth, angled edges that create a reflective, light-catching effect. The radial pattern or burst shape draws attention, making it a striking focal point in your room.
Foyer	Tri-Fold Mirror, Architectural Mirror	This design allows for versatile use with multiple panels, offering adjustable angles and a practical, space-enhancing feature. The shape often mimics architectural elements, adding structural elegance to your room.
Bathroom	Antique Frameless Mirror, Cottage-Style Mirror	The design features clean, edge-to-edge glass – offering a sleek, minimalist look. The antique framed mirror is often distressed or made from natural materials, complementing a vintage-inspired space.

Read to know more:  Illusion of Space: How to Use Mirrors in Interior Design

5 Unique Measures to Care for Antique Mirrors 

Here are some detailed measures to protect these delicate pieces. 

1. Glass Surface:

   Use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfibre towel dampened with a mild soap solution. Avoid spraying any cleaner directly onto the glass; instead, apply it to the cloth and gently wipe the surface in circular motions to remove dust and smudges. Dry the glass immediately with a clean, dry cloth to avoid water spots. 

2. Silver Backing:

   Use a soft, dry brush or cloth to gently remove dust or debris from the back of the mirror. Avoid using any liquid cleaners here, as moisture can cause tarnishing or degradation of the backing. 

3. Old Framed Mirror

   : To remove dust from wooden frames, use a soft, dry cloth. To remove dirt and dust from gilded or metal frames, use a soft brush or microfibre cloth. For ornate frames, a gentle brush can help effectively reach detailed carvings. 

4. Corners and Edges:

   To clean these areas, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with the mild soap solution to wipe along the edges gently. Be cautious not to let moisture seep into the frame or glass. Afterwards, use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess moisture. 

5. Hanging Hardware:

   Clean the hanging hardware or hooks with a dry cloth, to remove dust. If there is rust or corrosion, a small amount of rust remover on a cloth can help clean it. To avoid moisture damage, ensure the hardware is dry before reattaching the mirror. 

Conclusion 

Thoughtfully incorporating vintage mirrors into your space can add depth, reflect light, and create a focal point. Whether you pair them with contemporary furnishings or let them stand out in more traditional settings, these mirrors are both a functional tool and a captivating piece of art.

Read to know more: Framed vs Frameless Wall Mirrors: Which Style Suits Your Home

FAQs 

1. Is there a difference between vintage and antique? 

Yes, antiques are items that are at least 100 years old, while vintage pieces are generally considered to be 20-100 years old. 

2. Can I mix antique mirrors with contemporary furniture? 

Yes, you can mix antique mirrors with contemporary furniture to blend the old and new. For example, an ornate piece placed above a sleek, minimalist sofa can create a focal point in a modern living room. 

3. How do I care for and maintain antique mirrors? 

You can care for and maintain antique mirrors by cleaning them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap solution. Regularly dust the frame and glass, and keep them away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. 

4. Are antique mirrors expensive? 

Antique mirrors can vary in price depending on age, condition, and rarity.

Read to know more:  What are the Different Types of Mirrors?