How do I clean an antique mirror plate?

Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove dust from the glass surface without applying excessive pressure. Avoid commercial liquid cleaners that might seep behind old silvering and cause further degradation. Test any cleaning method on a small, unobscured corner first. Preserving the original mercury or silver backing requires gentle handling and protection from moisture.

Where should I place a console mirror?

Position these pieces against a flat wall in a hallway, drawing room or dining space where they can reflect natural light from windows. Ensure the floor is level so that heavy marble tops and tall mirror frames remain stable. Keep the timber away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight to prevent veneer cracking or fading. Secure tall console mirrors to the wall using appropriate fixings for safety.

How do I identify a regency table?

Look for classical architectural motifs, sabre legs, brass inlay and dark tropical hardwoods such as rosewood and mahogany. Proportions during this period lean towards refined symmetry and clean structural lines. Examine the construction methods underneath the table, noting hand-cut joints and secondary timbers consistent with early nineteenth-century workshop practices.

Are marble tops original to these tables?

Check the underside of the stone and the rebate of the wooden frame to see if the marble rests naturally within its original housing. Consistent weathering and matching edge profiles indicate that the top has remained with the base since manufacture. Inspect the weight and thickness of the slab, as nineteenth-century marble tops were typically heavy and quarried to fit specific console dimensions.