Where should I hang an overmantel mirror?

These large mirrors are traditionally positioned directly above a fireplace mantelpiece to anchor the room and reflect natural light. They also function effectively on principal walls in reception rooms where their architectural scale can be fully appreciated. Ensure the wall construction and fixings can support the substantial weight of a gilded wood and glass frame. Positioning the mirror opposite a window maximises the dispersion of daylight throughout the space.

How do I spot a Regency piece?

Regency mirrors often display classical architectural elements such as reeded columns, ball-studded cornices, and friezes with mythological or floral motifs. The gilding tends to be bright and the proportions emphasise classical symmetry. Examining the construction methods and the backing boards helps confirm the nineteenth-century origin. Revival pieces made later in the Victorian era often mimic these exact stylistic traits.

What is water gilding?

Water gilding is a traditional technique where thin sheets of gold leaf are applied to a prepared gesso surface using water and size. This method allows the gold to be burnished to a high, reflective shine. It is typically found on finer early pieces from the Regency period. The technique creates a warm, deep lustre that ages with a distinct patina.