Antique Mirror Glass
As one of the last remaining silvering workshops in England, our Shropshire facility continues a process first established in 1882 by German chemist Bernhard Tollens. We’ve evolved this method to suit contemporary demands, without compromising quality.
Originally developed during our restoration days, when antique dealers sought 18th and 19th-century mirror glass for the frames we restored, we use a carefully balanced combination of chemicals to silver glass by hand through pouring and spraying techniques.
This forms the base for our antiquing process, where layers are built gradually to recreate the natural patination seen in historic mirror plates. Over time, we have refined this into a controlled yet flexible method that allows for subtle variation in every piece.
Each panel is finished by hand in our glass workshop. While we offer light, medium, and heavy levels of antiquing, no two mirrors are the same. Every mark and layer is applied individually, giving each piece its own character while maintaining a consistent overall standard.
We adjust the finish to suit its setting. For example, overmantel mirrors may have heavier distressing towards the base, softening towards a clearer centre.
Mirrors can also be developed with worn edges, darker corners, or gentle tonal shifts that respond to light and surrounding materials.
These finishes can be applied across a range of applications, from standalone mirrors and overmantels to full wall panelling, or integrated into furniture such as the Miami Cocktail Cabinet and bespoke installations.
For pieces incorporating cathedral glass, each sheet is hand-cut to fit the design before being silvered and finished using the same process. This introduces a subtle texture and variation, ensuring each piece carries the same level of care and distinctiveness you expect from Rupert Bevan.
“If traditional skills and crafts are maintained then the aesthetics are often better than machine made. Anything done by hand with skill and technique, it tends to have more depth, more interest.”
- Rupert Bevan
Our Team
We are a collective of designers, makers, and sales specialists, with a shared respect for materials and the tradition of making. Our Shropshire workshop and London showroom teams together form the foundation of Rupert Bevan.
Careers
With four workshops under one roof, we offer the opportunity to be involved in projects from start to finish. We welcome those with a genuine interest in making and an appreciation of craft to join our team.
Press
Our work has been recognised by publications both in the UK and around the world, with our bespoke projects and RB Collection featured across print and digital platforms.
Trade Account
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Bespoke
From initial consultation through to sampling and the finished piece, our team works closely with you at every stage to ensure a seamless process.
Look Book
Request our Look Book to view the RB Collection and recent bespoke projects.
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