There is something magical about a mirror that still reflects but tells a story. At Elephanta, each Bone Inlay Mirror is an artisan made piece of art that is hand crafted, with love and care, out of ethically sourced materials and designed to transcend the test of time. Each frame moves with the quiet rhythm of handwork, with bone tiles, beautiful motifs and the smooth shine that gently glimmers in the light. Not just decoration, Bone Inlay Mirrors add warmth, depth, and even a soul to every setting they are placed in.
What a Bone Inlay Mirror Is ?
A bone inlay mirror is a decorative mirror framed with tiny pieces of carved bone set into detailed patterns like floral vines, geometric stars, or flowing arabesques. At Elephanta, artisans start with a wooden base, cut and shape each small bone tile, and fit them like a mosaic. The pieces are often dyed, sanded, and sealed to create a smooth, tactile surface that catches light. Because it’s hand-assembled, every mirror has tiny marks of the maker’s hand — that’s what gives it soul.
I still remember the first time I ran my fingers over a finished piece and felt the faint ridges where an artisan had smoothed the inlay; it felt like holding history.
Ethically Sourced Materials
We’re committed to ethical, legal sourcing. Many of our frames are made from reclaimed bone or responsibly sourced buffalo bone; we also offer resin alternatives that mimic the same luminous look. All pieces meet legal standards and we provide provenance and compliance certificates on request — contact Elephanta for any documentation you need.
Styling Tips — Where it shines
A Bone Inlay Mirror adds beautiful texture and understated luxury to any space. Here are two practical suggestions:
- Over a console table in an entry hall: hang the mirror above the console where you can have a small bowl for keys and a carved wooden tray that echoes the craftsmanship of the mirror.
- Above a mantle or dresser: the mirror should be the star of the show so keep the decor surrounding the mirror minimal: just a single vase and a small stack of books is enough.
These mirrors also layer beautifully with woven textiles, rattan chairs, or deep painted walls to bring out the organic nature of woven textiles and the more polished nature of bone.
Care & Maintenance
Bone inlay pieces are durable but should be treated with care. Here's two little tips:
- You should dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners or soaking the frame. For more tough spots, lightly dampen a soft cloth with water, wipe gently, and dry right away!
- Avoid prolonged exposure in direct sunlight, as this can fade dyes and dry out any glued joints! If your mirror needs to be repaired, please reach out to us rather than attempting to do a heavy restoration at home!
All handmade objects will have aged beautifully with some character. A small hairline seam or a subtle change is all part of a piece's own story, not a defect.
Should you be interested in other sizes or custom commissions, we work with clients and love seeing your thoughts come to life! Are you interested in a certain pattern or color combination? Do you want to see a range, or would like a certificate of provenance? View our collection, or contact Elephanta for custom work, anytime, we are happy to help!
