Mercury mirror, nineteenth century.

Unique mirrors with a contemporary, rectangular frame in alder wood characterized by a pinkish-white hue and a peeling effect in some places. This wood of great resistance is generally used in carpentry and decorative arts. They each consist of four boards joined together by circular wooden studs. The frame is therefore entirely made of wood. Inside, the mercurized mirror is inscribed in a groove. For the first frame, the mirror is recessed to a depth of 6 centimeters, while the second is 8 centimeters deep. The production of this type of mirrors was banned from 1850 due to the fact that mercury is a highly toxic substance for humans and the environment. The mirrors in question have significant characteristics of a mercury coating, visible through several signs of surface deterioration. Black spots are also visible, reinforcing this indication. In addition, a slight green tint is visible in the reflection, this color is caused by. Oxidation of mercury over time.