The History of Mirrors

As late as the middle of the nineteenth century, a great many mirrors were still made of highly polished metal surfaces alone. Methods of using alloys and pure metals, combined with glass, to construct surfaces that reflect with high fidelity are surprisingly ancient. The most significant specular technologies are those that incorporate mirrors to produce far more durable ones. By the late twentieth century, mirrors are everywhere, from tiny ones sewn into clothing to the exterior claddings of office blocks.