How do I adjust the mirror tilt?

Most cheval mirrors use brass thumbscrews or pivot pins fitted into the side uprights. Tightening or loosening these metal components controls the tension on the swing frame. Regular adjustment keeps the glass stable at the preferred viewing angle without slipping forward or backward.

Where should I place a cheval mirror?

These tall freestanding mirrors require adequate floor space and a stable surface to bear their considerable weight. Bedrooms and dressing rooms remain the traditional locations for full-length reflection. Positioning them near a light source helps maximise their effectiveness in brightening a room.

How do I distinguish Regency from Victorian examples?

Regency pieces often display classical restraint with cleaner architectural lines, sabre legs, or brass reeded details. Victorian versions tend to feature heavier proportions, bolder mouldings, and turned supports like barley twists. Examining the construction methods and foot styles helps clarify the likely decade of manufacture.

What is the difference between a cheval and a toilet mirror?

A cheval glass is a tall, floor-standing mirror designed to show the entire figure. A toilet mirror is much smaller and built to sit on top of a dressing table for upper body grooming. Both types utilise a pivoting frame, but their scale and placement in the room differ entirely.