Mirror: More Than a Looking Glass

The earliest known mirrors, dating back to 6000 BC in Anatolia (modern Turkey), were made from polished obsidian. Though functional, these hand-held mirrors were far inferior to today’s glass versions—similar to how polished stone countertops can reflect images.

By 4000 BC, Mesopotamians crafted mirrors from polished copper, and around 2000 BC, the Chinese used bronze mirrors. Around the same time, Central and South American cultures, including the Aztecs, also made polished stone mirrors, resembling the Anatolian designs. These mirrors were often embellished with culturally significant ornamentation.

Greek philosopher Socrates (470–399 BC) saw mirrors as tools for self-reflection, advising young men to maintain inner virtue if they found themselves attractive, and compensate with good deeds if they were not. Artifacts from 5th-century BC Greece, such as attic red-figure pottery, depict figures holding mirrors, emphasizing their cultural presence.

Over the centuries, silver and other metals were used for mirrors. The English word “mirror” didn’t appear until the 13th century, derived from the Latin “mirari” and the French “miroir.” Until the 16th century, polished metal plates remained the standard. Then, after perfecting their glassmaking craft in Murano, Venetian artisans introduced glass mirrors backed with foil, revolutionizing reflective technology.

However, glass mirrors remained rare and expensive. In the 1520s, a French merchant, André Clement, owned just two Venetian mirrors, valued at over $9,000. The decline of Italian trade due to shifting European commerce led Venice to seek new markets, making mirrors more available.

As glass mirrors gained popularity, they were framed and referred to as “looking glasses” to distinguish them from traditional metal mirrors—a term found in 19th-century records.

Vanity and self-reflection have a long history.

Reflective Cabinets, Refined Style

Mirrored finish cabinetry blends style and functionality, reflecting light to expand a space and add a sophisticated touch. These mirrored surfaces are designed to enhance the room’s aesthetics while cleverly concealing items or storage areas. Whether hiding valuables or creating discreet compartments, eggersmann’s mirrored cabinetry offers a sleek and practical solution for modern spaces.

Elevate with Mirrored Panels

Whether designed into a shelving unit to reflect light in small or dark spaces, feature the details of objects displayed, or simply add a touch of glamour, mirrored back panels are beautiful. Combined with glass shelving, custom cabinetry allows displayed treasures to take center stage, enhancing both the transparency and elegance of the design. These panels not only brighten a room but also create a striking visual effect, making every object feel like a focal point.

The Art of Disguise

Mirrored finishes can be creatively used to hide unsightly structure in a space such as a column. It is a favorite and often essential technique to take a design flaw and turn it into a feature. Mirrors can provide the camouflage you seek.

The can also hide valuables from view. Like a magician uses your assumptions and perception of space, placing a mirror on the front of a secret compartment can make any unwanted guests pass your valuables or safe without a thought of what sits safely behind.

Designed to Reflect You

Finding the perfect mirror for your new home can be a challenge. It’s frustrating when the features and shape are just right, but the finish doesn’t complement your space’s décor. A custom mirror designed specifically for your room offers the ideal solution.

At eggersmann, we embrace creativity, transforming a simple mirror into an exceptional piece. From side-lit framed full-length mirrors to bath and makeup vanity mirrors, our designs feature integrated LED lighting, a wide range of frame finishes, and optional automation. These custom creations go beyond ordinary mirrors, elevating your space with both functionality and style.

Our designers work with you to create a piece of furniture that reflects your style and meets your storage needs, with convenient features like electrical outlets in drawers. Custom luxury vanities often include large mirrors with integrated adjustable lighting, which can be hidden away with the click of a button, elevating your daily routine with both function and elegance.

Chic Mirrors for Every Room

We help you create the perfect mirror, tailored in size and finish to complement your new space. Whether it’s for your wardrobe, bath, hallway, or any room, we design mirrors that seamlessly fit your style. If we don’t have the exact mirror you’re envisioning, we’ll assist in sourcing it to match your vision. The option of integrated lighting can enhance the mirror’s functionality, and at eggersmann, we ensure lighting is thoughtfully incorporated into the design to elevate both form and function. With adjustable lighting, your mirror becomes a striking feature in any room.

Let’s design your room with mirrored creations!