This charming Victorian hand mirror is made from Diatite, an early molded material patented in the 19th century and considered one of the early forms of plastic used in decorative household objects.
The molded frame features delicate floral and scrollwork details along with beaded edging around the perimeter. Pieces like this were designed to sit proudly on dressing tables alongside perfume bottles, hairbrushes, and vanity sets.
The mirror glass shows authentic age with foxing and wear to the silvering, giving the piece genuine antique character.
Today it makes a wonderful collectible display item, vanity accent, or theatrical prop for Victorian costuming and décor.
Good antique condition.
• Mirror glass shows age-related foxing and silver loss
• Frame remains structurally solid with detailed molded design
• Patent markings visible on reverse
Antique Diatite hand mirror with molded floral handle and visible patent markings, including March 19, 1872. Diatite was an early molded composition material often compared to gutta percha or vulcanite.
The mirror shows significant age-related wear, including darkened/silvered mirror surface, spotting, patina, and general antique wear. Best suited for display, vanity decor, Victorian collecting, or early plastics/material history collectors.
This charming Victorian hand mirror is made from Diatite, an early molded material patented in the 19th century and considered one of the early forms of plastic used in decorative household objects.
The molded frame features delicate floral and scrollwork details along with beaded edging around the perimeter. Pieces like this were designed to sit proudly on dressing tables alongside perfume bottles, hairbrushes, and vanity sets.
The mirror glass shows authentic age with foxing and wear to the silvering, giving the piece genuine antique character.
Today it makes a wonderful collectible display item, vanity accent, or theatrical prop for Victorian costuming and décor.
Good antique condition.
• Mirror glass shows age-related foxing and silver loss
• Frame remains structurally solid with detailed molded design
• Patent markings visible on reverse
Antique Diatite hand mirror with molded floral handle and visible patent markings, including March 19, 1872. Diatite was an early molded composition material often compared to gutta percha or vulcanite.
The mirror shows significant age-related wear, including darkened/silvered mirror surface, spotting, patina, and general antique wear. Best suited for display, vanity decor, Victorian collecting, or early plastics/material history collectors.
