Where should I hang an overmantel mirror?

These large mirrors are traditionally placed directly above a fireplace mantelpiece to reflect light and anchor the room's main focal point. Because of their substantial weight, they must be secured directly into solid wall studs or masonry rather than hung from standard drywall hooks.

What is the difference between giltwood and painted frames?

Giltwood frames have been covered in thin sheets of gold or silver leaf, producing a bright and reflective metallic sheen that catches the room's light. Painted frames utilise pigmented finishes, sometimes combined with black accents, to offer a more subdued or rustic aesthetic suited to bistro or provincial interiors.

How can I tell a Victorian mirror from a French one?

Victorian pieces often lean towards heavy neoclassical symmetry or high-relief architectural forms designed for formal English reception rooms. French pieces, including bistro and chateau styles, frequently display more exuberant Rococo curves, painted highlights, or lighter provincial proportions.