Mirrors -- whether they’re window frame mirrors or antique mirrors -- do more than just helping you check your appearance. Apart from creating reflection, this product can increase the size of a space, maximise light, and adding drama and aesthetics to a plain-looking room.
If you’re trying to decorate your home to make it look classy, many interior designers recommend adding an antique mirror to your abode. Keep in mind these important tips when buying antique mirrors:
Know the style you’re looking for
Antique mirrors can be categorized depending on the period when they were made. And mirrors from each period have different characteristics. If you want to a mirror with elaborate carvings and pointed arch shape, then those from the Gothic period is for you. If you’re looking for some leaves and branches motifs, then Neoclassical mirrors would be the best choice.
Find what fits your budget
A genuine antique mirror is relatively pricier than its modern counterpart. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to spend lavishly. Be practical and don’t go beyond the budget that you’ve initially allocated for this functional and decorative piece.
The size and shape matter
When it comes to defining any space using any type of mirror (e.g. Window frame mirrors, etc.), the size and shape matter. If you want to accentuate width, go for a long, horizontal shape. If you want your mirror to be the focal point of a certain room, buy something that’s large enough to be stand out and become noticeable.
Inspect the glass for some ‘imperfections’
To check if a mirror is indeed antique, look the glass closely and check if there is a bubbling or a slightly wavy surface. As mirror production in the old times isn’t as sophisticated as it is today, chances are, an antique mirror will have some of these imperfections on its glass.
Be mindful of the glass’ colour
Because of natural antiquity, older glasses will tend to be yellowish or grayish in colour. If a mirror looks old but the glass is rather colorless, that mirror is most probably not a genuine antique.
Examine the thickness of the glass
Generally speaking, the glass of antique mirrors are much thicker than its contemporary counterparts. To check this one, you can gently lay the tip of a key to the mirror’s surface. Antique ones will produce a reflected image that’s very close to the actual one.
Look for some sparkly appearance behind the glass
In the old times, manufacturers used to spread mercury over a layer of the tin before they place the glass on top of it. If you observe a somewhat sparkly appearance behind the glass of a mirror, that mirror is probably from earlier centuries.
Check the mirror frame
Wooden frames naturally undergo wear and tear. If you see signs of wear (like chipping or staining), then that mirror is likely to be antique.
Be conscious about the details and finishing of the frame
Antique mirrors tend to have frames with intricate finishing -- all done by hands. If you see details like this, and they’re unique and not uniformly applied, you can be confident that that mirror is not a modern one.
If you are looking to spruce up one of your living spaces with window frame mirrors or antique mirrors, check out our collection at Aldgate Home. Contact us for more info or visit our gallery.
