Original Gold Flake Cigarettes Reverse Painted Advertising Mirror

An exceptional original Gold Flake Cigarettes reverse painted advertising mirror, dating from the early twentieth century and produced for W.D. & H.O. Wills, Bristol & London. Rich in authentic patina and character, this striking piece perfectly captures the elegance of period commercial advertising while serving as a timeless decorative object for today's interiors.

The mirror features the instantly recognisable Gold Flake cigarette packet, beautifully reverse painted onto the original mirror plate. Decades of natural foxing, oxidation and age spotting have transformed the mirror into a wonderfully atmospheric piece, creating depth and texture that simply cannot be replicated.

Its original black painted timber frame retains extensive historic wear, with layers of paint naturally revealing the timber beneath. Rather than detracting from the piece, this untouched finish enhances its authenticity and gives it the relaxed, collected aesthetic sought after in contemporary interiors.

Equally at home in an industrial loft, country house, boutique hotel, home bar or carefully curated living space, this mirror makes a striking focal point whether hung on a wall or displayed leaning on a console or shelf.

A genuine decorative antique that combines graphic design, craftsmanship and over a century of natural ageing.

Worn

Presented in good antique condition with wear entirely consistent with its age and original use.

The original mirror glass displays beautiful foxing, oxidation and age spotting throughout, giving the surface an exceptional depth and authentic antique appearance. The reverse-painted decoration retains vibrant colour with areas of natural craquelure and historic paint loss. The original painted timber frame shows extensive age-related wear, chips and areas of exposed timber, together with a historic corner loss. A later backing board has been fitted to the reverse for protection.

This honest patina forms an integral part of the mirror's appeal and reflects over one hundred years of history.

- Original Gold Flake Cigarettes advertising mirror
- Produced for W.D. & H.O. Wills, Bristol & London
England, circa 1920
- Original reverse-painted mirror glass
- Beautiful naturally foxed antique mirror
- Rich authentic patina throughout
- Original painted timber frame with historic wear
- Untouched decorative surface
- Wonderful industrial and country house character
- Ideal statement piece for shelves, consoles or gallery walls
- Ready to display

For a timeless, editorial look, style it:
- Leaned on a reclaimed oak console table alongside stacked vintage books, handcrafted ceramics and a pair of aged brass candlesticks.
- On open shelving mixed with natural stone, pottery and collected decorative objects to create a relaxed, curated display.
- Within a home bar or drinks cabinet, paired with vintage glassware, decanters and warm timber furniture for a sophisticated, nostalgic feel.
- As part of a gallery wall, combining antique artwork, architectural fragments and framed curiosities to add depth and personality.
- Above a sideboard or chest of drawers, balanced with olive branches or seasonal foliage in an aged earthenware vase.
- In a study, library or snug, layered with leather-bound books, soft linen textures and warm ambient lighting to create an inviting retreat.
- In an industrial or loft-style interior, where its aged mirror and distressed frame beautifully soften exposed brick, steel and concrete finishes.

The rich foxing, distressed frame and bold graphic design are best complemented by a restrained palette of warm neutrals, natural limestone, oak, linen and handcrafted ceramics, allowing the mirror to remain the focal point while feeling effortlessly collected over time.