How do I secure a heavy leaner mirror?

Large nineteenth-century frames carry significant weight and require careful placement against a solid wall. Use hidden security fixings at the top of the frame to prevent accidental tipping. Ensure the floor surface offers stable footing, whether resting on floorboards or thick carpet. Professional installation is advisable for exceptionally tall pieces.

What is Louis Philippe style?

Louis Philippe mirrors date from the mid-nineteenth century and feature understated, elegant lines. They typically display a gently rounded upper corners and simple bead or ribbon framing. This style suits modern interiors as well as traditional rooms because the ornamentation remains restrained. The frames focus on proportion rather than heavy carved relief.

Should I replace foxed mirror glass?

Original mercury glass often shows dark spots and soft distortion known as foxing. Collectors prize this ageing as proof of authenticity and historical character. Replacing the plate destroys the integrity of the antique piece. Live with the aged reflection to appreciate the true depth of the nineteenth-century surface.

How do I clean an antique gilt frame?

Dust giltwood frames gently using a soft, dry brush to protect the delicate gold leaf. Avoid liquid cleaners and chemical sprays which can strip the original gesso and surface finish. Water causes irreversible damage to nineteenth-century water gilding. Regular light dusting is all the maintenance these surfaces require.