Since the beginning of time, reflections have held magical powers. The story of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland/ Through the Looking Glass is full of mirror images. In Snow White, the evil Queen used a mirror on the wall to find the fairest one of all.
In Greek mythology, gods and mortals relied on shiny metals and water reflections to discover their fate or future. That’s why it was considered bad luck to break a mirror; some believed it actually shattered the future.
Mythology depicts mirrors as vessels. The gods used them to convey messages and many believed that mirrors could capture the soul. If it held that kind of power, then it seemed plausible that the devil himself might have invented mirrors for the sheer purpose of capturing souls.
Few household objects have as many superstitions attached to it as the mirror. Since it was considered to be the image of the soul, it was deemed unlucky for babies to look in a mirror for at least one year. Apparently that’s how long it takes for their souls to fully develop. If someone died in a room with a mirror, it was quickly covered so their soul wouldn’t become trapped in the shiny surface.
Then there were those who felt that mirror images had the power to deflect evil, so it was a sign of good luck and wealth to own a mirror. If a couple caught sight of each other for the first time in a mirror, they were guaranteed a happy marriage.
And if you suspect a vampire is lurking about, hand him a mirror. If he doesn’t have an image...run! Vampires have no soul and therefore no reflection.
Many classic European artists integrated mirrors in their paintings. This imagery reflected superstitions, stories and self-portraits. Leonardo de Vinci called the mirror the “master of painters”.
Whatever the belief, mirrors do add a personal touch to any room. It has nothing to do with optical illusions and everything to do with replication. Mirrors imitate light and space; you might even say mirrors double a room by duplicating its light and proportions.
Decorating with mirrors can illuminate dark corners and add the perception of space. They add depth and width to small or narrow areas. Some mirror frames are so ornate and artistic that they are the central focal point in a room.
Mirrors are an integral part of interior design. They add to the feng shui of design, which is an ancient Chinese custom of arranging space and furniture so it creates energy, flow and harmony with the environment.
Our Sliderobes designers understand the magic behind the mirror. Whether the sliding doors are dark wood with red glass or blue glass designed for a teenager’s room, a Sliderobes wardrobe combines different types of materials, glass and mirrors to create doors that match any decor and fit into any space.
Centuries ago, owning a mirror was a luxury. Now mirrors are everywhere from Christmas baubles to disco balls. But if you really want to see the power of the mirror, let us show you how our mirrored doors can transform your home.
