Relevant categories: Mirrors
(Above photo - Gilt Pier Mirrors - Tall Glass Mirrors )
A pier mirror usually hangs in the space between two random windows. The other name for this type of mirror is the trumeau mirror. In French, the word trumeau refers to the wall interspersing two walls. It is usually a tall, narrow mirror that plays an important role in a home’s interior décor. A pier mirror may also be hung slightly astride the wall
History of Pier Mirrors
Pier mirrors first emerged in France in the 18th century. They were a total departure from the carved mirrors that had existed before. As such, pier mirrors was made flat so that they could be hung right onto the wall. During the Louis XV era, the mirrors were at times arched and with frames featuring reclining figures or urns. In later years, the mirrors had giltwood frames. The carved details were mostly shells, leaves, flowers, as well as masks of goddesses and gods. When the Louis VXI era was ushered in, the furniture style changed significantly. Instead of elaborate carvings, the emphasis was put on straight lines. However, designers also borrowed ancient Roman and Greek motifs. As you would expect, the mirror frames weren’t any different from the other furniture pieces. Typically, the mirrors from this period were rectangular. The frames were ornately carved, beaded gilt wood, and pierced. On top of the frames, designers carved out natural motifs like flowers, vines, or birds.
When Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power in France, the Empire era was ushered in. During that time, designers emphasized massive pieces of furniture with brass and gilt bronze decorations. During that time, furniture pieces featured straight lines. The most popular motifs included sphinxes, winged lions, and other ancient Egyptian relics. The mirrors were hardly exempted. In addition to the common motifs, some even had personal insignia from Napoleon. It could be anything between a bee, crown, or the letter “N.”
(Above photo - Tall Adams Gilt Pier Mirror - Regency Hall Mirrors )
After Napoleon, three other Bourbon kings came to power. The last of these was Louis Philippe. During his time, pier mirrors were simpler imitations of Empire style design. They had straight lines but without Napoleon Bonaparte’s motifs. Instead of being uniformly rectangular, some even have round or oval shapes. The frames were made from cheaper types of wood, a departure from the mahogany used in the Empire style.
How to Use a Pier Mirror
(Above photo - Gilt Gothic Pier Mirror - English Glass Mirrors ) There are many ways you can use a pier mirror. It could be hung virtually anywhere in your house to enhance the interior décor. If you have an antique mirror with anornate frame, putting it in your sitting room is a must. No matter how small your room is, a mirror is capable of amplifying it to look like it is infinitely spacious. Antique mirrors are best placed in cool, less humid spaces. In short, you can use a pier mirror anywhere except the bathroom.
If you are looking for a pier mirror for your home, don’t hesitate to talk to us. We will give you an offer you cannot resist.
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