Where should I hang an overmantel mirror?

These large glasses fit securely above a fireplace mantelpiece to anchor the room's main wall. They reflect light across the space and draw the eye upward. Ensure the wall fixings match the substantial weight of the timber and gesso frame before hanging.

How do I clean a gilt mirror frame?

Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush to remove particles without disturbing the fragile metallic leaf. Avoid liquid cleaners entirely. Moisture can damage the gesso ground and lift the gilding from the underlying wood.

What is the difference between giltwood and gesso?

Giltwood refers to the actual wooden support covered in gold leaf, while gesso is the preparation layer applied beneath the leaf. The gesso allows craftsmen to model sharp relief details before gilding. Many pieces use a combination of carved wood elements and moulded composition over gesso.

Are these mirrors heavy?

Large overmantel glasses and floor-to-wall dressing mirrors possess considerable weight due to their solid timber frames and thick glass plates. Proper wall studs or masonry fixings are essential for safe installation. Smaller round and oval wall glasses require standard heavy-duty picture hooks.