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Three Examples of Silver Mirroring Deterioration in Old Gelatin Silver Photographs
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Three Examples of Silver Mirroring Deterioration in Old Gelatin Silver Photographs

Keith Dotson
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Antique portraits display the damaging effects of a form of deterioration called silver mirroring

Silver mirroring is a form of deterioration in gelatin silver prints where silver ions migrate to the surface of the gelatin emulsion, creating a shiny metallic effect when viewed at an angle. According to Conservation Wiki, silver mirroring is a natural occurrence in gelatin silver prints, and can be caused by age, acidity, and exposure to humidity.

Silver mirroring effects gelatin silver prints, but can also occur in negatives, albumen prints, and other photographic materials containing silver. In less severe cases, the photograph may look almost normal until viewed at an angle to the light, which allows metallic reflections or iridescent effects to be seen.

This video shows the appearance of silver mirroring on a photographic print

This video illustrates how silver mirroring effects the surface of a print. This print was dated January 26, 1913 on the back.
As this image shows, prints suffering from silver mirroring may look normal from certain angles. This print, dated January 26, 1913, was made by a photographer named Weatherhead in Springfield, Vermont.
This image shows the effects of silver mirroring on the surface of an old gelation silver print, dated January 26, 1913 on the back.
Silver mirroring on the surface of an old gelatin silver print.

Snapshot of Two Sailors

This undated old snapshot shows two young sailors in their uniforms. The snow and sky form a strong contrast with the black trees that their dark clothing blends into.
This undated snapshot shows two young sailors in their uniforms. The snow and sky form a strong contrast with the black trees that their dark clothing blends into. It’s printed on glossy gelatin silver photo paper.
Seen against raking light, the silver mirroring effect becomes obvious.
Seen against raking light, the silver mirroring effect becomes obvious.

Early 1900s snapshot of a smiling woman standing in snow

This early 1900s snapshot of a smiling woman standing in snow shows examples of yellowing and of silver mirroring (see example below).
This early 1900s snapshot of a smiling woman standing in snow shows examples of yellowing and of silver mirroring (see example below).
When turned to the light, this turn-of-the-century snapshot of a lady standing in the snow shows the distinct symptoms of silver mirroring decay.
When turned to the light, this turn-of-the-century snapshot of a lady standing in the snow shows the distinct symptoms of silver mirroring decay.

What can be done to stop or reverse silver mirroring?

You can learn more about silver mirroring at Conservation Wiki, including arguments for and against treatment of silver mirroring. Conservationists have to consider the potential damage than can be caused attempting to reverse the effects silver mirroring.

The site also includes a list of treatment methods, ranging from very basic — rubbing the surface with a pencil eraser — to much more in-depth — use of solvents and/or coatings.

Thanks for reading.

Be sure to visit me on Instagram, YouTube, or Pinterest, or on my website at keithdotson.com.

~ Keith

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