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

A toilet mirror sits upon a table or chest and is generally smaller, intended for close-up grooming of the face and hair. A dressing mirror often forms part of a larger dressing table or cheval arrangement designed for viewing an entire outfit. Both types utilise pivoting frames, but their scale and placement within a bedchamber differ according to their original domestic function.

How do I care for an antique carved wooden frame?

Keep the wood away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature shifts to prevent the timber from drying out or splitting. Dust gently with a dry, soft cloth and avoid modern aerosol polishes that leave residues. For gilded or gesso surfaces, extreme care is required to avoid flaking the delicate outer layer. Professional conservation is advised if structural cleaning becomes necessary.

Are all these mirrors adjustable?

Many table and dressing mirrors feature brass screw pins, side arms, or swivel pivots that allow the glass to tilt at various angles. This adjustability was essential for directing light onto the user's face during morning routines. Fixed wall mirrors do not tilt, whereas easel-backed table variants rely on a hinged rear strut to alter their angle.

How can I tell the period of a carved mirror?

Stylistic clues such as Rococo curves, Georgian proportions, or Edwardian inlaid motifs point directly to the era of manufacture. Examining the construction methods, screw types, and timber choice provides further confirmation. Secondary woods used in the backing boards and drawer linings often reveal age through tool marks and oxidation patterns.