Can I clean the original gilt surface?

Original gilt surfaces require minimal intervention using a very soft dry brush to remove dust. Moisture and modern cleaning solutions can damage delicate gold leaf and aged gesso grounds. Professional restoration is recommended if the surface shows active flaking. Avoid rubbing the metallic finish during routine maintenance.

How do I distinguish eighteenth and nineteenth century styles?

Eighteenth-century mirrors typically display hand-carved wooden structures with organic asymmetry in Rococo designs or strict classical balance in Georgian pieces. Nineteenth-century revival items often incorporate moulded composition ornament alongside hand-carving. Backboards, fixings, and the composition of the gesso layer also provide clues to the period of manufacture. Examining the construction details behind the frame helps confirm the exact era.

What is foxing on mirror glass?

Foxing refers to the small dark spots and mottled patches that develop on old silvered mirror plates over time. Moisture behind the glass causes the reflective backing to oxidise gradually. Many collectors value foxing as proof of age and authenticity rather than a defect. It creates a soft, mottled reflection distinct from modern glass.