What is a cheval mirror?

A cheval mirror is a large freestanding dressing glass mounted in a frame that pivots on vertical pins. This allows the user to tilt the glass to adjust the angle of reflection. The name derives from the French word for horse, referencing the four-legged trestle support common to early examples.

How do I date a dressing glass?

Dating relies upon timber selection, hardware, and stylistic details such as Regency scroll supports or Victorian barley twist columns. Examining the construction of the backboards and the thickness of the mirror glass provides further chronological clues. Earlier nineteenth-century pieces often feature heavy flame mahogany and robust brass fittings, while Edwardian and later versions show lighter timbers and simpler turning.

Where should I place a floor standing mirror?

These mirrors suit bedrooms, dressing rooms, and spacious hallways where they catch natural light and provide a full-length reflection. Positioning the piece opposite a window helps brighten the surrounding space. Ensure the floor surface is level so the freestanding frame remains stable when pivoting.

Are the mirror plates original?

Many antique mirrors retain their original glass, which often exhibits light foxing, minor speckling, and gentle distortion. Replacement glass is common due to the fragile nature of large nineteenth-century plates. Original plates show authentic signs of age that complement the patina of the surrounding wood frame.