Antiqued mirrors are one of the most versatile and stylish accents that can elevate the look of any room. With a patina that evokes a sense of history and charm, these mirrors are the perfect way to add character and visual interest to your home decor. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about antiqued mirrors and how to incorporate them seamlessly into your home.
An Introduction to Antiqued Mirrors
Antiqued mirrors are mirrors that are made to look old and worn using various distressing techniques. This gives them an antiqued, weathered appearance with a unique patina. The aging process creates a muted, softened reflection that is quite different from regular mirrors with their sharp, crisp reflections.
There are a few ways that mirrors can be “antiqued”:
- Chemical antiquing – The mirror undergoes a chemical reaction to corrode the reflective surface, creating an aged, mottled effect.
- Physical antiquing – The mirror glass is manually distressed by hand, using tools to etch, chip, rub, and age the surface.
- Faux antiquing – A faux patina is painted on to replicate the look of aged mirror glass.
No matter the technique, antiqued mirrors have an old-world, almost Gothic feel to them that adds gobs of character to any space. They come in all shapes, sizes and frame styles so they can be easily incorporated into rustic, traditional, industrial and other aesthetics.
The History Behind Antiqued Mirrors
Antiqued mirrors emerged during the Gothic Revival period of the Victorian era in the 19th century. During this time, there was a renewed interest in medieval designs and Gothic styles. Architects and designers of the period sought to bring the moodiness and grandeur of Gothic structures into the home.
The Gothic style emphasized dark, heavily ornamented designs with arches, heavy textures, and an overall sense of drama and mystery. Antiqued mirrors perfectly captured this aesthetic with their shadowy, aged reflections and dark metal filigree frames.
The technique of antiquing mirror glass dates all the way back to Renaissance times in 16th century Italy with Venetian glass makers. By applying acids and heat to one side of blown glass, they were able to create a porous, uneven surface that softened reflections.
Later on in the Victorian period, chemically antiqued mirrors became fashionable again as bold new chemical formulas were pioneered. Unique patinas and frame designs drew from Gothic, Baroque and Rococo influences.
Benefits of Antiqued Mirrors
What makes antiqued mirrors so captivating in home decor? Here are some of the benefits they offer:
Unique Visual Texture
The mottled, uneven glass surface of antiqued mirrors adds loads of visual texture and depth. The aged patina and muted reflections have an appealing warmth and movement that enlivens walls. This makes them far more interesting than regular flat mirrors.
Layered History and Meaning
The timeworn, weathered look of antiqued mirrors adds a sense of history and meaning to a space. It creates an instant old world feel, like the mirror has been plucked from a European estate and given a new home. This lends rooms cozy vintage charm.
Soft, Diffused Lighting
The porous, irregular glass used in antiqued mirrors diffuses light in a soft, ambient way. This provides gentle illumination perfect for dining rooms, bedrooms and lounges. The diffused light is flattering and inviting.
Flexible Sizing
Antiqued mirrors come in sizes that work in any space. Small ornate wall mirrors can accent tiny walls, while oversized statement mirrors can anchor large foyers and living rooms. Their versatile sizing makes them easy to incorporate.
Complementary Frame Designs
Antiqued mirrors have frames spanning from carved wood to distressed metal to magnify their aged allure. Elaborate Baroque-style frames enhance tradition, while naked iron frames accent modern spaces. This frame versatility suits any existing architecture and finishes.
Tips for Incorporating Antiqued Mirrors
Ready to bring the timeworn beauty of antiqued mirrors into your home? Here are some handy tips:
Choose the Right Size
Carefully consider your wall space and room size when selecting an antiqued mirror. Oversized mirrors can overwhelm small spaces, while too-small mirrors can look oddly undersized on large walls. Measure the intended wall area and opt for a mirror size that fits the proportions well.
Complement Surrounding Decor
Choose an antiqued mirror frame that blends in with your existing decor and color scheme. For instance, an antiqued gold frame matches beautifully with neutral palettes, while silver frames pair seamlessly with cool grays and blues.
Light Properly
Strategically place lighting around your antiqued mirror to maximize its charming reflections. Wall sconces, pendant lights and overhead lighting Wash the mirror surface in a flattering glow.
Install Securely
Due to their weight, antiqued mirrors require very secure mounting to walls. Use heavy-duty picture hanging hooks, reinforced nails or mirror mounts specifically designed for oversized mirrors. This prevents any tragic tumbles.
Layer with Decor
Layer your antiqued mirror with ancillary decor pieces like sconces, framed art and decorative shelving. This creates an impactful amalgamation of textures and styles. Just take care not to obstruct the mirror itself with decor hanging too closely around it.
Antiqued Mirror Ideas for Every Room
Antiqued mirrors pair beautifully with any design scheme and work wonderfully in all living spaces. Here are some ideas:
Entryways
An antiqued mirror in the entryway makes a wonderful first impression. Hang one above a console table or directly on the wall to bounce light around and enlarge the space. Opt for a statement mirror with an ornate frame for dramatic effect.
Living Rooms
Incorporate a stately antiqued mirror above the fireplace or another living room focal point. Flank it with sconces for ambiance. An oversized sunburst mirror also adds striking visual impact.
Dining Rooms
Dining rooms need ample lighting, making an antiqued mirror an ideal addition. Hang or prop one on the wall near the table to reflect candlelight and create intimacy. Adding crystal sconces can further enhance the gentle glow.
Bedrooms
Antiqued mirrors introduce a peaceful, soulful quality to bedrooms. Try framing the bed with identical mirrors for symmetry. Or place a leaning floor mirror in the corner to make the room feel larger.
Bathrooms
Bathroom vanity mirrors tend to be stark and clinical. Swap it out for an antiqued mirror instead for an injection of vintage character. Bonus lighting around the mirror helps illuminate grooming tasks.
Foyers & Hallways
Foyers and hallways are the perfect spot to hang a statement-making antiqued mirror. It serves as an eye-catching focal point while bouncing light to make a narrow space feel more open and airy.
Home Office
Add visual interest to your home office with an antiqued mirror. Prop one on your desk or hang it on the wall as motivational decor. For better work focus, keep the mirror behind your line of sight.
Antiqued Mirror Frame Styles
Antiqued mirrors come in a trove of unique frame styles. Here are some of the most popular options:
Ornate Gold & Silver Frames
Intricate antique gold and silver frames suit traditional, Victorian and Gilded Age spaces. Look for frames with detailed filigree, scrolling designs, or floral and vine patterns etched into the metal. Their upscale elegance pairs well with luxe furnishing.
Distressed Wood Frames
For a more rugged, earthy feel, choose an antiqued mirror with a distressed wood frame. Wood frames add in natural texture and come carved, weathered, whitewashed, stained or painted. Rustic carved wood frames complement farmhouse, industrial and eclectic spaces.
Wrought Iron & Metal Frames
Wrought iron and unadorned metal frames have an industrial vibe. The raw, stripped down metal materials mesh well with vintage, industrial and masculine interior motifs. Try black, bronze or faded tin metal frames.
Frameless
To keep the focus solely on the antiqued glass itself, select a frameless mirror. These mimic old-fashioned mirror panes, with the edges of the antiqued glass left exposed. The pared down style fits cleanly in modern and contemporary settings.
Antiquing Your Own Mirrors
Want to DIY your own antiqued mirror on a budget? With a bit of paint and some glass etching cream, you can easily transform a basic builder-grade mirror from the hardware store into a designer antiqued mirror. Here’s a simple tutorial to try:
Supplies Needed
- Mirror of your choice
- Paint (non-gloss) in chosen antique color
- Coarse grit sandpaper
- Glass etching cream
- Paintbrush
- Tape
- Rags
Steps
- Clean the mirror well and let fully dry. Then fully coat the frame in your chosen antique paint color. Allow to dry completely.
- Use coarse grit sandpaper to distress the dried paint, rubbing away paint in areas to expose some of the underlying surface. Focus on the raised edges and details.
- Once you’ve achieved a suitably aged paint job, tape off the mirror glass area using painter’s tape.
- Apply a thin even coat of glass etching cream to the surface of the exposed glass. Allow to sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Wipe away all the etching cream thoroughly with a rag. Repeat the etching and wiping process until desired level of age is achieved.
- Remove the painter’s tape to reveal your distressed antiqued mirror! You can further enhance with paint, glazes and patinas as desired.
What to Look for When Buying
If purchasing an antiqued mirror, keep these tips in mind:
- Inspect the glass for any gaps, chips or cracks that may impact its safety and durability.
- Look for solid robust framing with no weaknesses in the molding, joints or hanger.
- Test that any hanging hardware on the back is firmly secured and adequate for the mirror’s size.
- Evaluate the antiquing – does the age look authentically hand-distressed vs. phony?
- Assess the quality of any painted frames. Check for chips, peeling or faded spots.
- Examine intricately carved frames for any cracks, breaks or missing detailing.
- Consider the size and proportions. Make sure it is suitable for its intended hanging space.
5 FAQs about Antiqued Mirrors
Still have some lingering questions about incorporating antiqued mirrors in your home? Here are answers to 5 of the most frequently asked questions:
Are antiqued mirrors more expensive than regular mirrors?
Yes, in most cases antiqued mirrors come at a higher price point than regular mirrors. The special antiquing process requires more time, labor, specialized tools and materials. This translates to a higher cost.
How should antiqued mirrors be cleaned?
Use only mild soap and water paired with a microfiber cloth to gently clean antiqued mirrors. Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasive pads and spraying the mirror directly. Antiquing tends to be fragile.
How much weight can an antiqued mirror hold?
The average antiqued mirror can support 15-30 lbs, but this depends on the frame quality and hanging hardware. Inspect carefully and use reinforced mounting and mending plates for heavier mirrors.
How can you tell if an antiqued mirror is real or faux?
Examine closely to see if age spots look painted on versus authentically etched into the glass. Also note if the frame shows uniform patterns of artificial aging. Real antiquing usually looks irregular.
Should antiqued mirrors be placed near a window?
Avoid placing antiqued mirrors directly across from sunny windows. The light magnified through the uneven glass can become a blinding glare. Position at an angle instead for better light diffusion.
Antiqued Mirrors Add Timeless Character
Antiqued mirrors are a timeless way to infuse any space with unique character and vintage charm. With endless shape, size and frame options, they integrate seamlessly into any existing decor. Just mind the lighting placement and proper wall mounting, and these bewitching mirrors are sure to become a decor obsession.
So go ahead – bring home an antiqued mirror that speaks to you and transform your space with its aged beauty and romantic patina. With the right antiqued mirror, you can easily elevate your interior while adding an enticing layer of history and depth.
