In the modern day, mirrors are just about everywhere. But that wasn't always the case, and the mirror actually has a surprisingly long history.

In mirror bacteria, however, the molecules of life are – as you might’ve guessed from the name – mirrored. At least, theoretically; no one’s actually made any mirror lifeforms yet.

Satisfying that impulse began thousands of years ago, from China to Anatolia to Mesoamerica, with hand-held mirrors made of polished bronze, copper or shiny stones such as obsidian and hematite.

Satisfying that impulse began thousands of years ago, from China to Anatolia to Mesoamerica, with hand-held mirrors made of polished bronze, copper or shiny stones such as obsidian and hematite.