How do I date a wooden mirror?

Dating relies on examining the construction timber, backboards, and secondary woods used in the frame. Tool marks and the method of holding the mirror glass in place offer further clues. Style provides another indicator, though revival periods often copied earlier Georgian and Rococo forms closely. Inspecting the ageing of the glass plate helps confirm the period.

Where should I hang an overmantel mirror?

An overmantel mirror traditionally hangs directly above a fireplace mantelpiece to reflect light and fill the vertical space. Securing it safely to the wall requires proper fixings suited to the heavy timber and glass weight. These pieces also function well on prominent reception room walls where their scale anchors the room's proportions. Ensure the hanging height suits the surrounding furniture.

Are gilded frames made of solid gold?

Gilded frames consist of a wooden base coated with thin sheets of gold leaf applied over a gesso foundation. This traditional technique provides a brilliant metallic finish without the extreme weight and cost of solid metal. The underlying gesso allows for crisp carved details to show beneath the gold leaf. Over time, this surface develops a characteristic warmth and wear.