How do you clean the mirror glass on these?

Keep liquids away from the frame. If window cleaner drips onto the water gilding, it will wash the gold leaf right off. Spray a tiny amount of glass cleaner onto a cloth first, rather than directly onto the mirror. Wipe the glass gently, staying clear of the edges where moisture can seep behind and damage the silvering.

I found an old pair in my aunt's house but one has missing arms, is it possible to get new ones carved to match the original side?

You can get replacements made. Specialist carvers handle this type of restoration often, using the surviving arm as a template. They carve the new piece from a matching softwood and peg it into the original joint. After gessoing and gilding, they distress the new gold leaf slightly so it blends with the older surface.

Can they hold real candles safely?

Yes, provided the drip pans are intact and the sockets fit the candles snugly. Keep them well away from draughts and flammable fabrics. Never let the candles burn down to the socket, as the heat can singe the surrounding carved wood.

The wiring on the back looks like it was done decades ago, should I try to remove it or just leave the old cables where they are?

Leave the physical removal to a qualified electrician. Old wiring often runs through hollowed-out sections of the delicate wooden arms, and pulling it out roughly can snap the carving. If you plan to use them as electric lights again, the entire circuit needs replacing. Modern braided flex can be threaded through the existing channels safely, keeping the cables hidden while meeting current safety standards.

Home > Mirrors > Girandoles > Page 3

Antique Girandoles

← Page 3 of 5 →

An antique girandole is a highly decorated wall bracket designed to hold candles, often featuring a mirrored backplate that reflects the light outward to illuminate grand reception rooms.