Mirror of Erised

From Hpwiki

The Mirror of Erised is described as 'magnificent', with a gold frame and clawed feet.

'Erised' is simply 'desire' backwards. The inscription on the top: "Erised stra ehru oyt ube cafru oyt on wohsi." reads: 'I show not your face but your hearts desire' backwards. This is essentially true. It is also important to note that the mirror does not simply display this reflection, only the person standing directly in front of it may use the mirror in this manner, and this special image is visible only to them.

Harry finds the Mirror of Erised by accident in the first book.

We know only what two characters see in this mirror: Harry Potter sees his family, while Ron Weasley sees himself outshining his brothers. When asked what he saw in the mirror, Albus Dumbledore replies he sees himself holding socks. It is unlikely that Rowling intended this to be taken seriously. Also, in the fight for the Philosopher's Stone both Harry's (now different) and Quirrell's ambitions are reveiled, though Quirrell is under the influence of another.