Bring In the Light with Sunburst Mirrors

Sunburst mirrors are a unique and uplifting type of wall art that is bound to cheer up anyone who walks into the room. These mirrors add light and a feeling of warmth, wherever you decide to hang one. These are just a couple of the reasons they have been around, in some form or another, for hundreds of years.

The sunburst symbol has turned up again and again in ancient art dating back to around 300 BC. Craftsman and ancient architects would include the sunburst in their designs, reflecting the practice of worshiping the sun. The sunburst mirror was popular in Europe during the 1600′s. It has been said that King Louis XIV, known as the “Sun King” liked to start his day by gazing at his reflection in a sunburst mirror, with the rays of the sun radiating from his face.

The sunburst mirror was very popular again during the middle part of the 20th century, and seems to be making a resurgence again today. Whether it is the retro craze or just the desire to add color and light to our rooms, these mirrors seem to be everywhere once again.

There are many different versions of the sunburst design, from mirrors that are ornate and gold and large, to more modern versions made of wire or stainless steel that would be wonderful in a contemporary styled room. The classic sunburst mirror is often recreated by modern day artisans and companies using all sorts of different materials, from bamboo to driftwood.

If you enjoy vintage furniture and wall art, you can find antique sunburst mirrors at flea markets, yard sales and estate sales. If you can’t seem to find the mirror you like, look for reproductions of older style mirrors at online retailers. Whatever your decorating style is, you will enjoy the warmth and vibrancy that these stunning mirror bring to any room.