Where should I place an oval mirror?

Hang the piece above a mantelpiece, sideboard, or console table to anchor the room's composition. Position it opposite a window to draw natural light deeper into the space.

How do I clean old mirror glass?

Wipe the glass gently with a soft, dry cloth or mild cleaner applied to the cloth rather than the plate. Keep moisture away from the edges where the silvering meets the frame to prevent damage.

Are original mirror plates common?

Original mercury plates survive in select eighteenth-century examples, showing characteristic dark spots and age foxing. Many pieces received replacement glass during their working life.

How do I spot an 18th century frame?

Examine the timber construction, hand-carved gesso details, and backboards for signs of age and tool marks. Revival pieces from later centuries mimic these forms but employ different assembly methods and surface wear.