Vintage Mirrors

An antique mirror is read first by its frame. Louis XV Rococo multiplies curves, shells and asymmetrical foliage. Louis XVI returns to symmetry, with beading and a straight pediment. The Louis Philippe mirror, very common in French homes, is recognized by its gilded frame with a rounded profile and its arched top, sometimes shaped like a cocked hat. Napoleon III style loves abundant gilding and raised ornaments. Art Nouveau draws plant-like lines; 1930s Art Deco prefers fans, stepped forms and beveled glass. Then came the lighter 1950s, followed by the gold sunbursts, rattan and wavy shapes of the 60s and 70s. Our models draw on these vocabularies: they are recent, antique style mirrors and retro designs, not antiques.

Above a fireplace, a large period mirror traditionally covers almost the whole width of the mantel, leaving 2 to 4 in (5 to 10 cm) on each side. Above a dresser, the rule of two thirds of the furniture's width works for a molded mirror. Very decorative shapes, like a sunburst or a fan, need air around them: allow at least 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm) of free wall on each side. A small vintage mirror lends itself to a gallery arrangement, with three to five mirrors of different shapes spaced 2 to 3 in (5 to 8 cm) apart. The center of the group sits at about 61 in (155 cm) from the floor.

A vintage style mirror has the most impact in a pared-back setting. In an entryway with pale walls, the gold metal sun above a wooden bench creates instant contrast. In a Japandi living room, the vintage rattan mirror brings the warmth of the fiber without adding color. The gold sun and the rattan warm a bedroom in linen and terracotta tones, as long as they are not hung side by side. For a rawer touch, the industrial black metal mirror recalls early twentieth-century workshops. Avoid piling too many eras on the same wall: two registers are enough.

A metal sunburst or a detailed frame often weighs more than a thin frame of the same surface. Check the weight on the product page and match the anchors to your wall: metal expansion anchors on drywall, toggle bolts on hollow brick, standard anchors in concrete. Two hooks set apart reduce the risk of the mirror tilting. If you prefer to lean a large mirror on the floor against the wall, always add a discreet strap at the top. For fragile or very old walls, such as plaster on lath, ask a professional before drilling.

Gold finishes dislike water and household cleaners: a soft brush or a dry cloth is enough. Dust rattan with a soft brush and keep it away from direct heat sources, which dry it out. Wipe the black metal frame with a dry microfiber, and clean the glass like any mirror, with the cleaner sprayed on the cloth. Never let liquid run toward the frame.