Where should I hang an antique mirror?

These mirrors suit placement above a mantelpiece, across from a window to maximise natural light, or in a hallway as a pier glass. Their reflective qualities help open up smaller spaces. Ensure the wall construction supports the weight of carved wood and gesso frames, using appropriate fixings suited to the specific wall type.

How do I clean an antique gilt frame?

Dust the carved wooden surface gently with a soft, dry brush to remove settled particles without disturbing the gold leaf or delicate gesso. Avoid liquid cleaners and chemical sprays entirely. Moisture can penetrate worn gesso and lift the gold leaf. Stick strictly to dry maintenance to preserve the historic finish.

What is the difference between an overmantel and a wall mirror?

Overmantel mirrors are specifically proportioned to sit horizontally above a fireplace mantel, filling that architectural space. General wall mirrors come in various shapes and sizes for placement anywhere in a room. Both types utilise carved giltwood frames, but overmantels often feature arched or landscape orientations suited to hearth dimensions.

How can I tell a Victorian mirror from an 18th-century piece?

Victorian mirrors often display heavier, highly ornate carving influenced by Rococo or Baroque revivals, utilising machine-prepared components alongside hand work. Eighteenth-century pieces typically feature lighter proportions and distinctive joinery. Examination of the timber behind the gesso and the construction of the mirror plate helps clarify the period of manufacture.