Thursday, March 13, 2014

The Louis Philippe Mirror {Five Easy Pieces}

five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
What would a list of must-have decorating pieces be without a mirror? Not a very good list, I tell you. 

My "Five Easy Pieces" list would be incomplete without the addition of the Louis Philippe mirror, an item with style effortless and uncomplicated enough to work in both living room and bathroom, both in dining room and kitchen.

The Louis Philippe mirror has its origin in 19th century and, as the title suggests, is named for the reigning monarch of the period, King Louis Philippe I of France. This means that mirrors in the distinctive style--large mirrors with soft, round edges in a variety of wood or metallic tones--can date as far back as approximately 1830.

Antique Louis Philippe mirrors may also feature carvings or Greek-style motifs, and can be found finished in gold or silver leaf. Finding a 19th century Louis Philippe mirror with its original mercury glass would be quite the treasure!
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
(via Elle Decor)
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
(via Decorpad)
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
(via Elle Decor)
Though stumbling across a Louis Philippe mirror dating back to the 19th century might be near impossible at a flea market, the look isn't so hard to come by:
five easy pieces_the louis philippe mirror via Meet Me in Philadelphia
(one / two / three)
Affordable options can be found and, if the finish isn't right, you can get crafty and learn how to gold or silver leaf!

It's hard to say no to such a graciously shaped mirror, no? But would you want one in your home? Where do you think you'd put a Louis Philippe mirror if you had one?

Personally, I love the idea of this classic mirror leaning on a mantel or chest--it sort of relaxes the whole look, am I right?

And, in case you missed it, catch up on the rest of my "Five Easy Pieces" series here:

3 comments:

  1. really enjoy this easy pieces series!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, thank you, Leah! I'm so glad to hear that!

      Delete
  2. this mirror is at the very top of my favorites list right now! love that ballard designs option!

    ReplyDelete

I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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