Antique Overmantle Mirrors
Overmantle mirrors are typically large, placed above a mantelpiece or up against a wall over a fireplace, they can transform the look of a room, reflecting light and becoming a focal point as you enter a room. An antique overmantle mirror can be particularly striking and adds to the overall look and feel of a room, be it an ornate gothic inspired Victorian overmantle mirror or a simple, geometric Art Deco overmantle mirror.
History of Mirrors
The first mirrors were made from obsidian, which was the name for ground, volcanic polished glass. Glass mirrors as we know them today initially became a household feature in the mid 17th C, however mirrors from this time were typically small and it wasn’t until later they became much bigger, mirrors from this period are extremely rare. It was in the 19th C that overmantle mirrors began to be seen in Victorian households, now they have become a commonplace feature in many homes.
Styles of Overmantle Mirrors
There are a large variety of antique overmantle mirrors, be it rectangular, square, landscape or arched overmantle mirrors. When choosing an antique overmantle mirror it is important that the frame of the mirror fits with the décor of the room, an overmantle mirror can pull the look of a room together, portraying a cohesive style within your home.
In Victorian and Edwardian times the overmantle mirror overtook the smaller single mirror in popularity, which had previously been placed above a mantle. For a luxurious feel a gold gilt wood framed overmantle mirror conveys opulence and a sense of grandeur, whereas a dark polished wood frame appears more traditional and classical in its style, such as an antique Victorian mahogany overmantle mirror.
Victorian arch-framed overmantle mirrors are very sought after, as are vintage and antique French style shabby chic overmantle mirrors. There are also many Victorian gothic revival overmantle mirrors to choose from, adding a darker element to one’s room.
A Neoclassical overmantle mirror with Rococo features, leaf and scroll decoration, is very attractive, these mirrors will often feature a carved rococo arched top. For something more delicate and simplistic, a small antique silver overmantle mirror looks very pretty, as does an antique gold framed slim-line overmantle mirror. An Art Deco overmantle mirror has a strong look, with geometric and symmetrical lines and may have etched patterns on the glass.
Antique gold and metal overmantle mirrors look impressive set against a bold background, for a striking look a silver or gold leaf antique mirror is also very attractive, as is a Regency 19th C overmantle mirror, which looks very grand in appearance.
An antique overmantle mirror is not only an investment; it is an attractive heirloom to pass down through the generations, the family’s appearance reflecting back for years to come. An overmantle mirror creates the illusion of increased space and light in a room, taking centre stage it becomes a focus for one to admire, the uniqueness of an antique or vintage overmantle mirror only seeking to positively add to the décor of one’s home.
