Mirrors have been around for thousands of years and have undergone various changes throughout history. In ancient times, mirrors were not like the ones we see today. Let’s dive into what mirrors looked like in ancient times.
Ancient Egyptian Mirrors
The ancient Egyptians were known for their advancements in technology and craftsmanship. They used polished copper or bronze as reflective surfaces to create mirrors.
These mirrors were small and handheld, with a round or oval shape and a handle on the back. The reflective surface was highly polished to create a clear reflection, although not as clear as modern-day mirrors.
Ancient Greek Mirrors
The ancient Greeks used polished bronze or silver as reflective surfaces for their mirrors. They also added decorative elements to their mirrors, such as engravings of mythological figures or scenes from literature. These mirrors were often larger than the Egyptian ones, and some even had stands to be placed on a table.
Ancient Roman Mirrors
The ancient Romans continued to use polished metal as reflective surfaces for their mirrors but started using glass towards the end of the Roman Empire. These glass mirrors were made by blowing molten glass into molds, then polishing the surface to make it reflective. They also added decorative elements such as handles made of ivory or precious stones.
Conclusion
Mirror technology has come a long way since ancient times. The modern-day mirror is made of glass with an aluminum coating that reflects light back to our eyes, creating an accurate image of ourselves. However, it’s fascinating to see how people in ancient times created something similar without our modern technology.
- Ancient Egyptian Mirrors: Handheld, round or oval shape with a handle on the back.
- Ancient Greek Mirrors: Used polished bronze or silver, often had decorative engravings, and some had stands.
- Ancient Roman Mirrors: Continued to use polished metal but started using glass mirrors towards the end of the Roman Empire. They added decorative elements such as handles made of ivory or precious stones.
If you’re interested in the history of technology, it’s fascinating to see how something as simple as a mirror has evolved over time.