Mirrors Buying Guide
Mirrors we know today are very different from how they
were in the middle ages. In these times they were just
slightly convex disks of metal that reflected light off
their extremely polished surfaces. The traditional method of
putting aluminium or silver behind a flat sheet of glass
came into use in Venice during the 16th century. The modern
method of coating a glass surface with metallic silver was
discovered in 1835 and current mirrors are made by spreading
a thin layer of molten metal onto a plate of glass. Mirrors
have been used for many years in households for decorative
and functional purposes. Primary forms of mirror were hand
mirrors, full-length frames did not appear until the 1st
century. From the late 17th century mirrors were seen more
as a decorative piece with frames made from ivory, silver or
tortoiseshell.
Mirrors can come in any shape, which allows for the
versatility of its use. From small mirrors used in make-up
compacts to full-length mirrors in wardrobes. Inside the home
mirrors are often used above fireplaces, above sinks in
bathrooms and as part of dressing tables.
Other than for decorative or reflective purposes, mirrors can
be used to make a room look bigger by reflecting the space. They
can make rooms appear more spacious and are especially good to
use in narrow hallways to open the space up.
Matching a mirror to other furniture in your house is
important. Look at the woods and colours already in your
home and choose a frame, which complements these.If you want
to buy a wall mirror then you must look at how much room you
have. Freestanding mirrors are useful as you do not have to
permanently fix it to your wall.
To clean a mirror without getting streaks it is best to
use paper towels. Use either window cleaner, or if you don’t
have any then vinegar works just as well and leaves your
mirror extra shiny.