Where should a tall floor mirror go?

These large mirrors suit hallways, bedrooms, and reception rooms where vertical height enhances the proportions of the space. Placing them opposite windows maximises the diffusion of daylight across the interior. Leaner versions require stable flooring and proper wall positioning to ensure safety, while cheval designs occupy floor space independently without wall attachment.

How do I identify a cheval mirror?

A cheval mirror stands on its own four-legged frame, utilising side pivots that enable the glass plate to tilt back and forth. Nineteenth-century examples often feature mahogany or walnut woodwork with brass fittings. Originating as dressing mirrors, these pieces provide adjustable full-length viewing angles suitable for dressing areas.

What is a pier mirror?

A pier mirror is a tall, narrow glass designed to hang on the wall space between two windows, known as the pier. These pieces date across the Victorian and Regency eras, often featuring giltwood frames. They were traditionally paired with matching console tables to create a symmetrical decorative scheme in formal reception rooms.

How do I care for antique mirror glass?

Antique glass often displays foxing, silver loss, and age spots that evidence its nineteenth-century or early twentieth-century origin. Cleaning requires gentle wiping with a soft cloth and mild solution, avoiding harsh chemical ammonia sprays. Frames made of giltwood or painted gesso need dry dusting to protect the delicate surface layers from moisture damage.