The modern convex mirror has a long and varied history.
The convex mirror has been documented in many works of art, most famously Jan Van Eyck’s 1434 painting The Arnolfini Portrait.
![Van Eyck Arnolfini Portrait image](https://www.omelomirrors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/300px-Van_Eyck_-_Arnolfini_Portrait.jpg)
The Arnolfini Portrait, 1434 by Jan Van Eyck
Impressively, the convex mirror has adorned the walls of residences in Northern European homes since the 16th century!
Convex mirrors provide a far wider field of vision than flat mirrors. Goldsmiths and moneylenders found them helpful in keeping a watchful eye on areas otherwise out of view.
![](https://www.omelomirrors.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/goldsmith-convex-mirror.jpg)
A Goldsmith in His Shop, 1449 by Petrus Christus
They were also a favourite of the Regency butler. Positioned above the dining room sideboard, the convex mirror enabled him to keep a discrete eye on the dinner guests.
Nowadays, the modern convex mirror serves a predominantly decorative purpose in the home. Omelo Mirrors produces a variety of modern convex mirror designs & finishes to suit both contemporary & traditional settings.
![large Black and gold modern convex mirror hanging above a console image](https://www.omelomirrors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Black-and-gold-convex-mirror-large-Cavetto-image.jpg)
Large Cavetto Convex Mirror (81cm dia.) in Waxed Black with a 22ct Gold Leaf Bead by Omelo Mirrors. Image supplied by customer.