It is thought that the overmantle mirror originated in Paris in the eighteenth century, and in fact was not only a mirror that was placed over mantlepieces. It seemed that the phrase overmantle mirror could also refer to very large mirrors placed in between two windows. Overmantle mirrors are often though of as belonging in large, grand mirrors that would hang over mantlepieces above fireplaces in stately homes and castles. Of course there were also smaller versions, designed to be hung in more modest size houses and cottages too. Unfortunately, as modern technology brought us central heating, houses began to be built without fireplaces, and no longer could overmantle mirrors able to take centre place in rooms hanging above wonderful roaring open fires. However, gas and electric fires ensured that mantlepieces were still a feature in many homes, and overmantle mirrors are still a popular choice for many homes.
As with all mirrors, an overmantle mirror can add a whole new angle to a room, especially if the room is small, or doesn't have much light coming into it. A carefully placed mirror can create an amazing sense of space and light in a room, and can uplift even the dingiest of spaces, giving new dimensions to dark corners.
There are many sizes and shapes of overmantle mirror, with nearly all of them being rectangular, some with beautifully curved top edges, others with stunningly ornate frames. You will be able to find an overmantle mirror to fit in with any kind of room decor, whether it's classic, modern or even a bit of both. With huge ranges of sizes and frames to choose from, there is something for every room and something for every taste.
It is worth considering that an overmantle mirror does not have to be hung over a fireplace, and can look equally as good hanging over a dresser or chest of drawers, or even just hung on a wall. Wherever you are thinking of placing your mirror, you are sure to be delighted with the amazing change it will make to the space it is in and the surrounding areas. The difference that can be made with one simple home accessory is so surprising, it's just a case of choosing the right style of overmantle mirror.
Choosing the right overmantle mirror can be a bit tricky, especially with so many shapes, sizes and styles to choose from. There are a few key things to take into consideration when choosing your mirror, and getting these things right will ensure your mirror fits in perfectly with it's surroundings.
One of the first things to consider is the size of the mirror. A good way to get an idea of the size you are looking for, especially if you are placing it over a mantlepiece, is to measure the length of the mantlepiece as you don't want a mirror that is longer than the mantlepiece it sits over as this will look very strange. Another thing to take into account when deciding on the size of the mirror you get is the size of the room it is going to go into. Having a very large mirror in a small room can sometimes make the mirror seem very overbearing, especially if it has an ornate frame. Once you have determined the rough size of mirror you would like to get then you can think about the shape of mirror.
Overmantle mirrors come in two main shapes, one being a simple rectangle, the other is a rectangle with a curved top. It really is a case of personal choice as to which shape you decided to opt for, so it is time to just sit down and stare at the empty space that will soon be occupied by your new mirror.
Next comes the frame choice. Now, again a lot of this is down to personal choice, however you also need to take into consideration the rest of the decor in the room the mirror is going to go in. Also, if you are placing it over a mantlepiece, it is a good idea to take into account the style of the mantlepiece. While you are thinking about the frame, you should also think about whether you want the glass beveled or plain. Depending on the type of frame you have, there may actually be no need to have the glass beveled as the frame works perfectly well without it, however the choice of beveled or plain glass is normally not frame dependent so you can make a decision once you have chosen your frame and can see what you think would look best.
There are some beautifully ornate frames available, as well as some very simple, chic frames, meaning that whatever the style of the room, you will be able to find an overmantle mirror frame to match.
One of the wonderful things about an overmantle mirror is the fact that they can have wonderfully grand frames and not look out of place. There is something about a mirror that is hanging over a mantlepiece that allows it to have an extravagant frame and still look like it belongs in even the smallest of rooms.
When you are choosing your overmantle mirror frame, you should be sure to take into account the general decor of the room it is going into, along with the style of the mantlepiece it is going to hang over. A stunningly ornate frame hanging over a very contemporary mantlepiece is going to look quite awkward. There are so many different types of frames to choose from that you are certain to find the right frame to create the look you want. From wood to metal, wire to glass, the material that your overmantle mirror frame can be made out of is entirely up to you, of course certain materials will have their own design restrictions, especially when it comes to glass frames. Glass mirror frames tend to be very simple in their design, although they can come in some stunning colours, with some very delicate etching or frosting effects.
Wooden frames are the most versatile of the frames available, and some beautiful designs can be carved into them, whether you want flowers, or sweeping curves or perhaps just some nice smooth, elegant lines. Wooden frames can also be painted, or if you are after something that looks a little
more authentic you can have your overmantle mirror frame gilted, to give it a wonderful gold or silver effect. Metal frames can also be worked into some wonderful designs, and can give a mirror a stunning aspect in a room.
A frame can really make or break a mirror, especially if it is to be a focal point in the room, which is why it is so important to make sure you get the right frame for your mirror. If you are unsure as to the right frame to fit in with your room, then looking in interior design magazines, or home magazines can provide some great inspiration. Choosing the right frame for your overmantle mirror may take some time, but it will be worth it in the end.
US $45.00
