Where should I hang a convex mirror?

These pieces work best opposite a window or in a hallway, where they can capture and project light across the entire space. Because the curved glass shrinks the view, hanging them at eye level ensures you can appreciate the reflected room detail clearly.

How do I date a Regency mirror?

Look for characteristic design elements such as ebonised reeded inner bezels, ball-turned frames, and carved crests like eagles. The construction of the backboards and the type of gilding also offer clues to the period. Many pieces from this era date from around eighteen hundred to eighteen thirty, reflecting the classical tastes of the time.

Are giltwood frames solid gold?

No, giltwood consists of a wood base, such as pine or hardwood, covered in a thin layer of genuine gold leaf applied over gesso. This method gave the luxurious appearance of solid gold without the prohibitive weight and cost. Over the centuries, this delicate surface acquires a soft patina that reveals hints of the red or white ground beneath.

How do I clean a giltwood frame?

Giltwood is extremely delicate and water can easily damage both the gold leaf and the underlying gesso. Dust the frame gently with a soft, dry brush rather than using any liquid cleaners. Keep the mirror out of direct sunlight and damp environments to preserve the integrity of the gilded surface and the wooden structure.