Where were these cabinets placed in a home?

These pieces typically stood in dining rooms, drawing rooms, or entrance halls. Their reflective surfaces helped illuminate darker corners of Victorian and Edwardian interiors. Cabinets with glass doors or open shelves also functioned as display spaces for ceramics, glassware, and decorative ornaments.

How should I care for the mirror glass?

Clean mirror glass with a soft cloth and a gentle, ammonia-free cleaning solution sprayed onto the cloth rather than the glass. Avoid letting moisture seep behind the mirror plate where the silvered backing meets the wood. Keep wooden frames polished with appropriate wax to maintain the moisture balance of the timber.

What is the difference between a credenza and a sideboard?

A credenza is traditionally a low-standing cabinet without legs, often featuring extensive marquetry and mirrored elements designed for display. Sideboards generally incorporate deeper storage cupboards and drawers intended for dining room service. Both forms frequently integrated mirrored backs during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.