Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why was mercury used in mirrors?
1 Answer

Mercury was used in mirrors in the form of mercury amalgam. This substance was used because of its highly reflective property when applied on a surface. Shop an array of antique mercury mirrors from top sellers around the world on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Related Questions
- What is a mercury mirror?1 Answer
- How can I tell if a mirror has mercury in it?1 Answer
- What is antique mercury glass?1 Answer
- What is mercury used for in clocks?1 Answer
- What are mercury glass Christmas ornaments?1 Answer
Shop for Mercury Mirrors on 1stDibs
French Late 18th Century Stacked Mercury Mirror
Located in Buchanan, NY
Large French late 18th century stacked mercury mirror in a gilt frame. Good condition, wear
Category
Antique Late 18th Century French Louis XVI Wall Mirrors
Materials
Mirror
Italian Antique Small Walnut Frame Mercury Mirror, Early 1900s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian antique small walnut frame mercury mirror, early 1900s
Small walnut structure, with window
Category
Antique Early 1900s Italian Romantic Wall Mirrors
Materials
Mirror, Walnut
Rectangular Bevelled Giltwood Mirror with 19th C Mercury mirror plate
Located in Reepham, GB
A stunning rectangular giltwood mirror with a distinctive 19th Century beveled mercury mirror
Category
Antique 19th Century Wall Mirrors
Materials
Giltwood
Giltwood Wall mirror with 18th Century Mercury Mirror Plate
Located in Reepham, GB
bevelled edge mercury mirror plate is housed in a later classic rectangular gilded frame mounted with a
Category
Antique 18th Century Girandoles
Materials
Giltwood
Silver Mirror on Wood with Mercury Mirror Late 19th Century
Located in Milano, MI
Mirror in silver and mercury mirror made in the second part of the 19th century
Ø cm 32 h cm 31,5
Category
Antique 1880s Italian Romantic Wall Mirrors
Materials
Silver
$618 Sale Price
38% Off
A Gothic Revival oak and inlaid wall mirror with the original mercury mirror
Located in London, GB
A Gothic Revival oak and inlaid wall mirror with the original mercury mirror.
Category
Antique 1870s English Gothic Revival Wall Mirrors
Materials
Oak