History
of the
Looking
Glass
At Austin's Antiques you can find • Wall Mirrors • Vanity Mirrors • Dressing Mirrors in any of these classic designs and more.
Classic mirrors add a touch of class to your decor as well as giving your room that light, airy feeling that only mirrors can.
Frames of mirrors, unlike art frames, were considered extremely important throughout history because mirrors were so delicate and expensive. Starting in the middle ages, mirror frames were made by artists who imitated the furniture style of the time. Early on gilded frames were popular because they reflected the much-needed light so valued in the medieval home.
Lacquered frames and veneers were also popular throughout history in classic mirrors. The styles of mirrors have changed over time as well as the materials. 4000 B.C.-made of polished volcanic glass by Indians of Mexico 3000 B.C.- made of polished gold, silver, or bronze worldwide 14th century-mirror plates were invented but was top secret 17th century-larger flat mirror plates could be made 18th century-wide spread use of sheets of glass for mirror plates backed with mercury and later with silver.
Only the rich could own mirrors in the beginning years of mirror history because a 3 X 4 mirror would have cost an equivalent of $40,000 today. Since frames were cheaper, people would change the frame to fit a new style rather than buying a new mirror.
Styles of classic mirrors literally reflect the styles of furniture:
• 1600-1690-Early American/Jacobean- these have dark finishes and utilitarian straight lines
• 1700-1755-Queen Anne- these will have gracefully beautiful proportions
• 1700-1780-Colonial- these American styled mirrors are less ornate than the European mirrors and more conservative, just as the furniture was
• 1714-1760-Georgian- named after King George, these will have heavy proportions and elaborate carvings
• 1760-1795-Adam- this designer reproduced ancient Italian styles
• 1800-1840-American Empire- this mimics the French Empirical styles
• 1840-1910-Victorian- named after Queen Victoria, this will encompass many styles depending on what point you choose-Rococo to Duncan Phyfe. Most will have gothic designs, heavier proportions, dark finishes, and elaborate ornamentation. (from web database)
CALL US toll free to inquire about current available inventory. Inventory turns around quickly. What you see today in our store can be in someone's home by tomorrow.
