How do I date a swing mirror?

Dating relies on examining the construction methods of the drawers, the thickness of the timber, and the style of the brass pivot hardware. Earlier eighteenth-century pieces often feature hand-cut dovetails and bevelled mirror plates set into moulded frames. Later Victorian and Edwardian examples show machine-sawn elements and standardised brass fittings. Comparing the wood species and veneer patterns against known period benchmarks helps narrow the decade of manufacture.

Are the mirror plates original?

Many antique swing mirrors retain their original glass, which can be identified by slight surface imperfections, minor foxing, or thin dark spots behind the silvering layer. Replacement glass usually appears exceptionally clear and lacks historical wear patterns. Inspect the backboards and wedges holding the glass in place to see if they have been disturbed. Original plates add considerably to the historical integrity of the piece.

How do I maintain the pivoting mechanism?

The pivoting mechanism typically consists of threaded brass screws, side arms, and tension nuts set into the upright supports. Over-tightening can strip the threads or crack the surrounding wood frame. Periodically check that the nuts are gently snug to prevent the heavy glass from tipping forward suddenly. Avoid applying modern synthetic lubricants that might seep into antique wood finishes.

Where should I place a cheval mirror?

Cheval mirrors require a stable, level floor surface to prevent undue stress on the four supporting legs and pivot joints. Placing them away from direct sunlight protects vulnerable mahogany and walnut veneers from fading. Because these mirrors are tall and heavy, positioning them out of high-traffic walkways prevents accidental knocks that could destabilise the freestanding frame.

Search 0

68,550 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 181 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN JOIN AS A SELLER DEALER LOGIN

Saved

GIFTS

Swing Mirror Furniture

181 ITEMS ADDED TODAY

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

Swing Mirror Furniture

20 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

Swing mirror furniture provides the adjustable reflection essential for grooming, spanning grand cheval glasses and compact toilet mirrors from the Georgian and Victorian eras.

Queen Anne Black Lacquered Toilet Mirror with Miniature Bureau Base

18th century

Save

Queen Anne Black Lacquered Toilet Mirror with Miniature Bureau Base

From Christopher Buck Antiques Ltd.

£5,950

FOR SALE

mirrors

1900 - 1920

Save

Edwardian Mahogany Dressing Table

From Affordable Old Furniture

£250

FOR SALE

dressing tables

Regency Anglo Indian Padouk Dressing Mirror; Highly Unusual and Large Proportions

19th century

Save

Regency Anglo Indian Padouk Dressing Mirror; Highly Unusual and Large Proportions

From Gary Wright Antiques Ltd

£2,250

FOR SALE

mirrors

Late Victorian Wright & Hunter of Belfast Arts & Crafts Inlaid Oak Dressing Table

19th century

Save

Late Victorian Wright & Hunter of Belfast Arts & Crafts Inlaid Oak Dressing Table

From Wessex Antique Bedsteads

£850

FOR SALE

dressing tables

← 1 2 →

65,542

Antiques For Sale

181

Antiques Approved Today

3,769

Antique Uploads This Month

444,380

Total Antiques Sold

Swing Mirror Furniture

Queen Anne Black Lacquered Toilet Mirror with Miniature Bureau Base

Edwardian Mahogany Dressing Table

Regency Anglo Indian Padouk Dressing Mirror; Highly Unusual and Large Proportions

Late Victorian Wright & Hunter of Belfast Arts & Crafts Inlaid Oak Dressing Table

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories