I was walking one day around the Annandale area in Virginia, and came across a consignment store's display window and the most stunning mirror stopped me in my path. I waited 30 minutes for the store to open up, thinking about where I could display it in our home. The mirror was obviously old as it was full with spiderwebs, but I had not seen anything like it before. I did some research and I came across a genuine antique wood mirror. The elegant elderly man who was working in the store (volunteering) suggested I should buy it, as he explained it wasn't plastic, but wood. I am so glad I did. A simple search on 1st dibs really shows that these mirrors can fetch thousands. I am here to say, if you look around, you will not have to pay thousands for this mirror. Keep a good eye on ebay, as many are found there at bargain prices.
"The peacock blue of this silk wall covering makes a bold and colorful contrast to the more subtle bone-colored bookcases. It gives a strong and sophisticated feel to the room yet still works beautifully with the softer, more feminine pinks. " -- designer Markham Roberts
Federal style flourished between 1785-1820 in America and was in fact influenced by the Empire style in France, and the Roman republic, which the United States believed it resembled. You can buy these mirrors here
Federal style incorporates the neoclassical influences of Hepplewhite and Sheraton including straight and delicate lines, inlay and contrasting wood veneers. Characteristics include slender legs, very delicate decoration, and symmetry. Many doors and entrances are often framed by columns and framing over the door. (Picture to the Left English Regency Convex Mirror with Eagle Seller Susan Silver Antiques)
Living in Virginia, many of these antiques show up here and amoung the southern states more so because they are the older parts of the country, and the first settled states. Though, it is simply amazing what people donate to Goodwills and second hand stores, not knowing what is valuable. A $40,000 painting was donated to a Baltimore Salvation Army...(I am sure accidently)
Regency Carved Giltwood And Ebonized Glass Mirror Seller Florian Papp
Photo: Antoine Bootz and Jeff McNamara; Stylist: Charles Birdsong; Designer: Cathy Kincaid
The one tip I can suggest when looking for a higher end convex mirror from late 18th century period, is be sure that it is carved WOOD, and not plastic. I drove an hour to look at one mirror, and didn't think to ask if the mirror was plastic or wood. The plastic mirrors, are just as beautiful, but not as valuable. BUT, if you want to just decorate, get a pair of the plastic ones, then foil the mirror with Gold leaf. Why not? (Mirror to the left The Federalist Antiques)
Regency Style Federal Con Designer Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn
Architectural and Interior Design by Marshall Watson and Holmes Easley
Regency Eagle Gilt Wood Convex Mirror- Tom Hayes
English Regency Convex Mirror with Eagle Seller Susan Silver Antiques
Regency Eagle Gilt Wood Convex Mirror- Designer Suzanne Kasler
Unusual model convex or bull's eye mirror Seller Dixon Lane Antiques
Gilt Wood Convex Mirror- Veranda
