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From Functional to Aesthetic: The Evolution of the Mirror
Mirrors have become a commonplace object in our daily lives, but their history is rich and fascinating. What began as a functional tool has evolved into an indispensable item in modern households. In this blog, we explore the evolution of the mirror and show how modern mirrors, like those from EKO, continue this tradition with a perfect balance between function and form. Additionally, we’ll share more about the many benefits of our EKO mirrors!
The Origin of the Mirror: A Look into the Past
The first mirrors used by humans were simply water surfaces in which they could see their reflections. Later, around 6000 B.C., people in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) began using polished obsidian stones as mirrors. These stones provided a limited reflection but marked the beginning of the mirror as a functional object.In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, metal mirrors became popular, made from polished copper and bronze. These mirrors, however, were expensive and often considered luxury items, accessible only to the elite.
The Mirror Becomes an Art Form: The Middle Ages and the Renaissance
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, mirror production made significant advancements. In Venice, glassmakers in the 13th century developed a technique to create glass that was clear and thin enough to serve as a mirror. These Venetian mirrors were renowned for their quality and beauty but were also extremely expensive, regarded as works of art in their own right.In the Renaissance, the mirror not only served as a functional object but also as an aesthetic showpiece. Mirrors were adorned with richly decorated frames and were often placed in the most prestigious rooms of castles and palaces.
The Mirror as a Design Object: The 19th and 20th Centuries
With the Industrial Revolution, mirror production became more accessible. New techniques made mirrors cheaper and more widely available to the masses. During this period, mirrors also began to play a role in interior design, with styles ranging from the ornate Victorian mirrors to the clean lines of modernism in the 20th century.It was during this time that the mirror secured its place in every household, not just as a useful object, but also as an essential element of decor.
Modern Mirrors: Functionality Meets Aesthetics
Today, more than ever, mirrors are a fusion of functionality and aesthetics. Modern mirrors, like those from EKO, are designed to fit seamlessly into any interior while meeting the demands of the modern consumer.
iMira Pro Double-Sided Sensor Mirror
Take our iMira Pro Double-Sided Sensor Mirror, for example. This stunning mirror stimulates natural sunlight. The LED lighting along the edge automatically turns on when you approach the mirror and switches off when you leave the sensor area. The mirror features 3 light modes and can also be operated manually. It offers up to 5x magnification, can be rotated 180°, and is adjustable to many angles. The iMira runs on a lithium battery and is also rechargeable with a USB cable.
iMira Foldable LED Mirror
The sleek EKO iMira Foldable LED Mirror is a stylish essential for any beauty routine. With its full ring LED light mimicking natural sunlight, this mirror offers unparalleled clarity with three adjustable brightness settings. It's not just about looks; it's also about convenience. The mirror is lightweight, portable, and comes with a foldable cover, making it perfect for travel. Rechargeable by USB and boasting a high-definition 7.86-inch mirror face, the iMira ensures you're always seen in the best light!
Conclusion
From the humble beginnings as water surfaces and polished stones to today’s high-tech design objects, mirrors have come a long way. They have evolved from a simple functional tool to an indispensable decor piece that perfectly combines style and practicality. At EKO, we continue this tradition by designing mirrors that are both beautiful and functional, fitting the modern lifestyle of our customers.