Where should I hang a spherical wall mirror?

These pieces work best in principal reception rooms, hallways, or dining spaces where their wide-angle reflection can capture the entire layout of the interior. Hanging them opposite a window maximises the amount of light they draw into the space. Because of their optical distortion, placing them at eye level in narrow hallways or above mantelpieces allows viewers to appreciate both the room's reflection and the intricate frame details up close.

What is a sorcerer mirror?

A sorcerer mirror is an alternative historical term for a convex wall mirror, originating from the idea that the distorted, wide-angle reflection resembled a crystal ball used for divination. These pieces were popular curiosities in nineteenth-century homes. They combine decorative appeal with optical science, serving as both room ornaments and fascinating conversation pieces.

How can I tell a nineteenth-century mirror from a later revival?

Examining the construction of the timber backing boards, the composition of the gesso, and the natural ageing of the gilt finish helps determine the true age of a piece. Older mirrors often exhibit hand-cut fixings and distinct shrinkage cracks in the gesso layer. Revival pieces made around nineteen hundred or later tend to show more uniform manufacturing traits and less wear to the underlying materials.