One of our favorite things to share here on How to Decorate is the story behind our products. We design most of the products we sell ourselves, and oftentimes the story behind the products is what makes it special. That’s why we love getting to share it with you! This Fall, we debuted our new Beaded Louis Mirror which has the most gorgeous finish and beaded detailing, all inspired by an antique we found in Paris! Read the whole story below:
After a full day of shopping the marchés aux puces in Paris, we were ready to escape to our favorite cafe for a brief respite with a glass of wine. We were weaving our way through the endless rows of stalls when we found our treasure: an 18th-century gilt mirror designed in the distinct style once popular during the reign of Louis-Philippe I of France. It was love at first sight.
Yes, it had those iconic rounded shoulders and elegant squared base of a Louis, but it was the details of the design that caught our attention. The richly molded frame featured a double row of oversized beading with the most beautiful finish, cracked and worn with time. Multiple layers of gold foil, cream and red peeked through. One could just imagine its artisan meticulously applying layers of paint using the age-old traditions of his craft.
Back in Atlanta, we were determined to recreate every last detail of the frame, right down to its shimmering gilt finish. Sadly, we had to take the mirror apart, so we could send pieces of the frame to our vendor. But the effort was well worth it.
We were astounded when we saw the final version of the frame. The gold leaf, hand rubbed finish was a perfect replica of its predecessor. One of our favorites from the fall catalog, this frame is a sophisticated reflection of mid-19th-century French design, and we’re so excited to be able to finally share it with you.
For more design inspiration, visit our Pinterest Boards, or find more gorgeous rooms in our Photo Gallery.
Did you like this post and find it helpful? Rate it below and share your thoughts in the comments!
Tracy Williams
This is the mirror I have been searching for! It’s uniqur and dreamy! And it is discontinued:( I’m so sad!
Mallory Thomas
Hi Tracy,
So glad you love it! You can actually purchase an almost identical version of the Louis Mirror here.
Happy Decorating,
Mallory
Janice
I purchased the Louis mirror and am in need of some guidance on the proper height to hang it. I normally use the rule that the center of whatever I am hanging should be at eye level (60″ from the floor). Would I use that same rule to hang this mirror? The mirror will hang in my foyer and I have a planter to place under it. Thank you for your advice.
Caroline McDonald
Janice,
Yes, unless you’re hanging the mirror over a piece of furniture, I would say you want the middle of the mirror to hang at eye level. If it’s over a piece of furniture, I’d suggest the bottom of mirror to hang maybe 3-4 inches above the furniture piece. Of course it’s hard to say without seeing a photo!
Good luck!
Caroline