What is a cheval mirror?

A cheval mirror is a freestanding dressing mirror suspended on vertical pivots within a frame, allowing the user to tilt the glass angle. They were designed for full-length viewing in bedrooms and dressing rooms. Evidence shows both mahogany and cheval formats originating in the Georgian era and continuing through later revival periods.

How do I identify a toilet mirror?

A toilet mirror, also known as a dressing table mirror, is a smaller glass mounted on a miniature frame with a box base or small drawers. They sat atop chests of drawers or dressing tables for close-up grooming. Listings include mahogany and box base toilet mirrors from both the eighteenth century and later revival periods.

Where were overmantel mirrors placed?

Overmantel mirrors were traditionally hung directly above a fireplace mantelpiece to reflect light and fill the vertical wall space. Their landscape proportions matched the width of the hearth below. Pieces in the archive include wide gilt and mahogany overmantel formats suited to period interiors.

What distinguishes fretwork mirrors?

Fretwork mirrors feature flat wooden frames cut with intricate pierced designs, often associated with Chippendale styles. These frames commonly incorporate motifs such as birds or scrolling foliage. Examples on this page include mahogany pieces featuring specific decorative details like the ho-ho bird.