Are these mirrors suitable for bathrooms?

Most antique giltwood and gesso mirrors are unsuited to high-moisture environments like bathrooms. The damp atmosphere can damage the delicate gesso, wood, and original gilding. Keep them in dry living spaces, hallways, or bedrooms where the temperature remains stable.

How do I clean an antique glass mirror?

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently remove dust from the glass and the carved frame. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that might strip the antique gilding or paint. Apply a mild, non-ammonia glass cleaner sparingly to the cloth rather than spraying the mirror directly.

How do I tell a Victorian mirror from an Art Deco one?

Victorian mirrors often feature ornate revival styles such as Baroque or Rococo, utilising heavy carved gesso and giltwood with motifs like shells. Art Deco pieces from later decades favour cleaner geometric lines, such as diamond shapes, with simpler framing. Examine the overall silhouette and decorative details to identify the period aesthetic.