Mirror Board-Floral Inlay

Mirror Board-Floral Inlay

This one-of-a-kind mirror board features a vivid, stained-glass-style inlaid Floral design image on one side and a reflective mirror on the other. The artisan carved it from a single piece of hardwood, then applied a glossy polyurethane finish to enhance both shine and durability.

The Round mirror measures 5″ x 5″.  The crafter added a couple 1/2″ and 1/4″ brass tacks for accent. On the front, an circle inlay of a floral design made from stained-glass-style plastic displays a colorful  image (4.5″ wide by 4.75″ tall). A few of ¼” and 1/2″ brass tacks are placed around the design. At the top, a sturdy handle—3.75″ long and 1″ wide—makes the board easy to carry or hang. The overall size of the mirror board is  8″ x 8″. It comes with a yellow wool storage bag. Whether used as a decorative collectible, a unique home décor accent, or a personal accessory for powwow regalia, this piece blends traditional influence with handcrafted charm.

One of a Kind.

Native American mirror boards have a rich and layered history, particularly among Plains people such as the Ponca, Osage, and Blackfeet. These boards were more than decorative items—they held ceremonial, spiritual, and even tactical significance.

Origins and Use
Mirror boards likely emerged in the 1800s, when trade mirrors became widely available. Before that, some crafters used sheets of mica as reflective surfaces. Initially, warriors used mirror boards as heliograph signaling devices during expeditions. Over time, they evolved into sacred objects carried during dances and ceremonies.

Symbolism and Beliefs
Many believed mirrors could deflect harmful spiritual forces. The flash of light from a mirror was thought to resemble lightning, which symbolized power and protection in warfare. As such, mirror boards became associated with strength, spiritual defense, and good fortune.

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