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FAQ: Where should I go to have an antique mirror re-silvered?

August 30th, 2010 Posted in Antique Mirror Tags: , , ,

Question by debodun: Where should I go to have an antique mirror re-silvered?
How much should I expect to pay for this service? Will it hurt the value of the antique mirror?

Best answer:

Answer by sunflower
call an antique dealer- it does not always work depending on the age

What do you think? Answer below!

The Reflection of Reality That is Exihibited by the Antique Mirror

April 15th, 2010 Posted in Antique Mirror Tags: , , , ,

The Reflection of Reality That is Exihibited by the Antique Mirror

A mirror, is an object with a surface that has good image reflection; that is, it is so smooth that it gives an exact replica of an image. There are many different forms of mirrors available today. There is the plane mirror, with a flat smooth surface, There are also Curved mirrors which are of two different types, the convex and the concave mirrors used to produce magnified or demagnified images or focus light or simply distort the reflected image. Commercially there are different kinds of wall mirrors, floor mirrors, accent Mirrors and decorative mirrors in a wide range of styles.

There is a unique place in history for any antique mirror, whether it is to be admired on the walls of Versailles or imagined in the tale of Snow White. The reflection of reality, the cult of good looks, vanity and so on, these are the elements that come to one’s mind in relation to the use of mirrors in general. They combine functionality and artistic refinement, and they used to be held as precious in nature ever since the beginnings of civilizations. Sometimes one doesn’t need an antique mirror to discover the precious nature of such objects that have become both a commodity and a necessity in our times.

Since it is widely known that interior design greatly relies on the use of mirrors to achieve unique visual effects, it’s no wonder that so many people are eager to purchase items that would make their homes even more beautiful and full of style. Thus, the choice of an antique mirror is a great way of recreating a classic but sophisticated atmosphere in the tradition of a glorious long gone age. If you truly care about purchasing an original antique mirror then we should start by mentioning the fact that you’ll have to make a real investment for such an item. Depending on age and condition, an antique mirror may cost even up to a thousand dollars or more.

If you are not too keen on authenticity, but you are only interested in the looks, you can buy a fake antique mirror that has the appearance of age while being completely new. There are plenty of companies in the business that use a wide range of devices and equipments to give the old patina to an object that has just been created. Such an antique mirror is a great decor element to match with the rest of the house and enhance the artistic effect of other visual details in the room design.

The frame of an antique mirror has to be made of wood, with or without engravings, but definitely carrying on the age imprint that is specific to the item. You can purchase an antique mirror at fairs or auctions that sell old stuff, and even if it may not look in the greatest of shapes you can nevertheless purchase it and have it reconditioned afterwards. A lot of hard work is often required for the restoration of such an item, and you have to make sure that the person you take the antique mirror too is a true craftsman of the restoration art.

Timeless Reflections www.Antiqued-Mirrors.com This video shows you close up video of our antique mirror tile (8″ square), these are available in sample form for which is refundable on placement of an order. Great for antique mirrored backsplashes! Also available in 4″ square and custom sizes!!! FREE TO ASID Members!
Video Rating: 5 / 5

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Antique Mirrors For Your Beautiful Home

April 1st, 2010 Posted in Antique Mirror Tags: , , ,

Antique Mirrors For Your Beautiful Home

Normally, it is the frame more than the mirror itself that raise the antique value of a mirror. In way, one can even assert safely that antique mirror frames were the manifestations of fully developed branch of artistic expression.
Antique mirror is an ornamental silvered glass mainly made use of as a part of interior decoration. The process of producing glass comprises carefully changing the regularity of depositing the metal on the glass. Apart from its decorative aspects, an antique mirror brings out a soft and peaceful reflection, which adds a soothing sense to the ambient light levels inside.

From the ancient times, mirror frames used to get lot of artistic attention. Mirrors were always used not just for its mundane utility purpose, but as a value enhancing item to improve the look of the interiors. Hence, while the mirror satisfies mostly the utility aspect, the frame adds beauty to the surrounding. It is the frame design that provides the antique mirror look to a mirror. Such frames, therefore invariably are handcrafted. With elaborate carvings, delicate inlay works, and embossed patterns, antique mirror designs are magnificent in looks and exceptional in form. In this way, any formless or frameless mirror can be transformed into a timeless beauty and a beautiful art piece. It is done by framing the edges of the mirror with artistically handcrafted frame using wood, metal, glass or such items.

Antique mirror frames are crafted for various decors and design schemes. Whether mirror is hand crafted or otherwise, a beautifully crafted frame can give a complete facelift to it. Finally, a polishing finish is given to the mirror frame. It may be involving a coat of varnish or paint. The preferred finishes are dutch gold, copper or aluminum.

The mirror frames used to give the antique finish to a mirror are by and large made out of silver, wrought iron, wood, or glass. These are usually are decorated with embroidered work to make it eye catching. Some of the common and leading shapes are oval, round and rectangular. Simple borders are also common along with complex designs & patterns.

The traditional mirrors produced by some of the famous mirror produces would definitely highlight any modern room décor. It can be a wall or a cheval mirror, the design does justice to the traditional tastes.

In the discussion about antique mirrors, a mention of Aranmula ‘kannadi’ or Aranmula metal mirror is highly proper.

Aranmula metal mirror is the result of a distinct mirror making tradition of Kerala, in South India. This tradition was originated in sixteenth century at the village of Aranmula. Its uniqueness is that the reflective properties of this mirror cast in an un-named alloy mixed with 33% tin and copper are equal, if not much better than the advanced modern day glass mirror.

The mystery that surrounds this mirror is stemmed from the fact that the exact metals used in this alloy are never divulged by the families who make these mirrors.

The British museum situated in London displays 18 inch long Aranmula metal mirror.

www.Antiqued-Mirrors.com This video is being designed to show off our new silvering product coming out on Feb. 21st. This shows off the silvering and antiquing process in this nearly 6 minute video you will get a feel for what is involved with silvering and antiquing with our chemicals! Check out our website – we have a upcoming DVD that will show tricks and many ways to antique mirror for some awesome effects. Email me with questions from our website.

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