Where should I hang an overmantle mirror?

These large mirrors traditionally sit directly above a fireplace mantel to reflect light and anchor the room's main reception space. Ensure the wall fixings match the heavy weight of the wood and gesso frame before mounting.

How do I clean the original glass?

Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust from the glass surface without disturbing the surrounding gilt frame. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that might seep behind the plate and damage the original backing or foxed areas.

What is the difference between a pier glass and a wall mirror?

Pier glasses are specifically proportioned to fit the narrow wall space between windows, often paired with low console tables. Standard wall mirrors feature more balanced rectangular, oval, or arched dimensions suited to wider open wall spaces.

How can I tell a Victorian piece from an Edwardian one?

Victorian examples tend to display heavier Rococo Revival or French Chateau ornamentation with deep carving and pronounced crests. Later nineteenth-century and Edwardian pieces sometimes shift toward cleaner lines while retaining traditional gilding techniques.