Were these mirrors meant for candles?

The projecting arms were specifically designed to hold wax candles, which flickered against the glass plate to illuminate darker rooms. Most surviving examples retain their original sconces and drip pans, though modern owners often choose not to burn candles on them.

What is a convex girandole?

A convex girandole uses a curved spherical glass plate that captures a panoramic view of the entire interior. Regency examples often paired this fish-eye reflection with an eagle surmount. The curved glass makes rooms appear larger while concentrating light from the attached candle arms.

How do I date a giltwood frame?

Dating relies on the style of the carving, the composition of the underlying gesso, and the manufacturing traits of the wood. Georgian pieces show deep, hand-chiseled relief work. Later Victorian and 20th-century revivals often utilise softer gesso mixtures and mechanical finishing techniques beneath the gold leaf.