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Mirrors
303 itemsWelcome to NOVICA's Mirrors Page! Discover decorative, global and antique-style wall mirrors - all artisan crafted. From rich, handcarved wood frames, reverse painted glass styles, and modern stained glass designs, our mirrors category has developed its own special following. Enjoy exploring!
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The Village Council
Your answers straight from the village experts
Different types of mirrors require different cleaning techniques. Gilded mirrors, for example especially vintage pieces may oxidize with the use of cleaning products or water, so it is best to simply and lightly dust their frame with a clean, soft cloth or brush. Most other styles have a frame that can be cleaned with a paper towel or soft, damp cloth. Glass and mirror cleaner is okay for the mirror itself, but we recommend spraying it onto the cloth first and not directly onto the mirror, as dripping chemicals stuck in the frame may cause damage over time. Be sure to dry the mirror when you are finished cleaning by wiping away any leftover moisture or cleaners.A well-ventilated area assists in keeping the mirror dry, and we recommend hanging your mirror in an area where it can be admired without the risk of nicks, wall leaks, or other issues.
Absolutely! Depending on the styles that suit your design needs, our mirrors are versatile, fun, and can be placed in a variety of spaces. You might even want two mirrors on perpendicular walls for greater perspective. Handcrafted mirrors show a natural diversity and uniqueness, so there is truly something for everyone.
There are a few simple ways to tell if your mirror is handmade. If you look closely, youll notice unique lines, markings, or painted stylized details that indicate that it is a one-of-a-kind piece. Mirrors made of wood typically display distinctive and intricate engraving, while painted mirrors often reveal unique brushstrokes, colors, and designs. Shapes and sizes of a particular motif may vary slightly, as no two handcrafted mirrors are exactly identical. This makes them all the more special.
Yes! At Novica, were passionate about protecting our planet, and we understand the importance of eco-friendly items. Andean artisan Luciana Sandovol prides herself on recycling discarded materials like cardboard, natural dyes, paper, and paints to use for her papier mache creations. Central America has also started introducing recycled natural fibers into their mirror-crafting. India utilizes mango wood, a fast-growing, dense, eco-friendly wood that is native to Southeast Asia, and harvested only after its fertile, fruit-bearing years.
A classic Mexican folk art is embossed tin, and this is often employed in mirror frames. In Thailand, the lavish lai rot nam technique ornate gilded motifs on smooth black lacquer has been used for more than 400 years. Balinese woodcarvers use their legendary skills to handcraft mirrors whose frames often depict the island's exuberant flora and fauna.The technique of reverse-painted glass is believed to have originated around 4 AD in Egypt, and arrived in Italy by the 13th century. In the 16th century, Italian and Spanish artisans were migrating to Peru, bringing the technique with them. Motifs are painted by hand on the reverse side of glass panes. These are inlaid into a wooden frame, achieving a wonderful clarity of colors.In addition, beautiful Peruvian baroque wall mirrors are handcrafted in the Andes. They are carved by hand and covered with aluminum or bronze leaf before they receive an aged patina. See how theyre made here: https://bit.ly/3r3DxTp
As with most handicrafts, the materials at hand are the ones most often used. Woods of all kinds with sleek surfaces to show off the grain, or carved by hand, or embellished with applications. Glass panes, gilt, natural fibers or fabrics are also perfect for mirrors, as are tooled leather or metal repousse, ceramic tiles, stone, resin or papier mache. Artisans the world over discover unique materials to craft innovative and attractive mirrors.
Wall mirrors and hand mirrors are perfect for artisans, as are tabletop mirrors. In fact, any mirror with a frame invites an infinity of creative designs and techniques.
Flower motifs are popular almost everywhere. Balinese mirrors often depict the fragrant plumeria flower that thrives there. West Africas handcrafted mirrors may feature sheets of aluminum and brass repousse, or some of the region's more than 500 traditional adinkra symbols. These are visual icons that convey conventional wisdom or proverbs.For their handcrafted mirrors, Brazilian artisans enjoy working with glass mosaic, inspired perhaps by the iconic beach walk at Ipanema. Indias intricate embossed brass mirror frames evoke the splendor of Mughal palaces. Central Americas hand-carved mirrors recall colonial elegance. And some of their newer handcrafted mirrors include Guatemalas famous worry dolls. Legend tells how the Maya sun god gave Princess Ixmucan the gift of solving people's problems. People started making dolls in Ixmucan's honor and telling her their problems. Then they place the doll under their pillow, hoping she will find a solution during the night.
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Featured Reviews
Functional Art
When I upgraded my main floor bathroom, I used the African Princess mirror as it's focal point. Hence, I bought my vanity, counter top, and lights to complement the mirror. The bathroom turned out to be a remarkable room.
Joanne
May 25, 2018
Beautiful Artwork
i got a pair of mirrors. They are stunning. The photo does not do them justice. They were well packed and arrived safely. There are very slight differences between them, so you know they really are hand painted. Gorgeous.
Linda
Jan 15, 2021
Christmas gift from my mom
This is beautiful and arrived in perfect condition. It really is an outstanding work of art and I am thrilled every time I look at it. The colors and details are lovely and the slightly raised section circling the mirror adds dimension.
Featured Artist
Asunta Pelaez Reverse-painted glass mirrors and trays
"A dream is a wish your heart makes. It doesn't come true through magic. It requires determination and hard work."
"My passion for art comes from the depths of my heart. It's in my DNA. From childhood, I attended all the drawing and painting classes at school.... read more
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