Where should I hang a heavy wall mirror?

Mount heavy frames directly into wall studs or use appropriate masonry fixings depending on your wall construction. Ensure the hanging wire or brackets on the back match the total weight of the timber and glass structure. Position the piece at eye level or opposite a window to maximise natural light distribution throughout the room. Proper weight distribution protects the structural integrity of the antique frame over time.

What causes foxing on mirror glass?

Foxing appears as small dark spots or cloudy patches on antique mirror plates caused by the oxidation of the reflective backing over decades. This natural ageing process happens when moisture slowly reacts with the silver or mercury compounds behind the glass. Many collectors value light foxing as proof of age and authenticity rather than a defect. It adds a soft, atmospheric quality to the reflection that modern glass cannot replicate.

How can I date an old mirror?

Examine the construction methods of the wooden backboards, frame joinery, and the type of screws or nails used to secure the components. Hand-cut wood and older fastening techniques typically point to nineteenth-century or earlier origins. Inspect the edges and thickness of the glass plate, as older manufacturing methods often left slight irregularities or bevels. Comparing the stylistic motifs, such as Regency gilt or Art Deco geometric lines, narrows down the manufacturing decade.