Were these designed for candles or electricity?

Original examples were built exclusively to hold wax candles or oil lamps, using the reflective glass to amplify the ambient light in dim rooms. Many retain their original brass or bronze sockets and drip pans. While some owners choose to wire them for electric lighting, others prefer to use them with unlit candles to preserve the historical fabric of the piece.

Foxed glass refers to the speckled, dark patches that develop behind the glass plate as the silvering degrades over decades. This natural ageing process creates a soft, mottled reflection rather than a sharp modern mirror image. Many collectors seek out original plates with authentic foxing because it proves the glass has not been replaced.

How do I clean an antique gilt frame?

Dust giltwood and gesso frames very gently with a dry, soft artist brush or ostrich feather duster. Moisture and chemical cleaners will damage fragile gold leaf and historical water gilding. Avoid touching the metallic surfaces directly, as oils from skin can tarnish exposed metal mounts and degrade vulnerable gesso details.