What is an antique mahogany vanity glass?

An antique mahogany vanity glass is a tabletop dressing mirror framed in mahogany, usually mounted on pivots between two upright supports. Most examples sit atop a small box base fitted with drawers for storing personal items.

How do I date an antique vanity glass?

Dating relies on stylistic clues such as the shape of the mirror frame, the presence of inlay, and the construction of the base drawers. Georgian pieces often feature serpentine fronts, while Regency versions show simpler classical lines. Hardware details like brass finials and bone escutcheons also provide helpful chronological markers for the 18th and 19th centuries.

Where were these mirrors placed?

They were designed for bedrooms and dressing rooms, placed upon dressing tables, washstands, or chests of drawers. Smaller hand-held or double-sided versions were used for close inspection during grooming.

What is the difference between a toilet mirror and a cheval mirror?

A toilet mirror is a smaller glass designed to sit on top of a piece of furniture, typically incorporating a drawer base. A cheval mirror is a taller glass, often full-length, supported on a floor-standing or large tabletop frame. Both types utilise pivoting mechanisms to adjust the angle of the reflection.