How do I secure a tilting mirror?

Most cheval mirrors use threaded brass thumbscrews or tension nuts fitted into the side pivots. Tightening these hand-screws locks the glass plate at the desired angle. If the mirror slips, check that the internal washers and pivot pins are properly seated within the frame arms.

Can these mirrors be placed on carpet?

Freestanding floor mirrors require a stable foundation to prevent wobbling, particularly when the glass is adjusted. Many period examples feature original castors that roll easily on flat floor surfaces. Placing them on thick carpets may require supportive cups under the feet to maintain balance and protect the floor.

How do I identify a Regency period mirror?

Regency pieces often display classical restraint, clean architectural lines, and restrained brass mounts. Look for reeded columns, sabre legs, and scroll supports typical of the early nineteenth century. Timber choice and construction methods, such as hand-cut dovetails and older mirror plate bevels, help confirm the era.

Are the mirror plates original?

Many nineteenth-century frames retain their original mercury or early silvered glass, which frequently exhibits light foxing and small age spots. Replacement glass is common if the original silvering degraded significantly over time. Examine the edges of the glass and the backing boards to determine whether the plate dates to the same period as the frame.