How do I clean a silver frame?

Clean silver components gently with a specialised microfibre cloth and mild silver polish, avoiding abrasive pastes that might wear away thin plating or delicate chasing. Keep moisture away from wooden backs and velvet linings during the cleaning process to preserve the structural integrity of the antique materials.

What is an easel mirror?

An easel mirror is a portable looking glass fitted with a hinged rear support strut, designed specifically to rest upon dressing tables or sideboards without requiring wall mounting. These pieces often mirror the decorative motifs found on contemporary photograph frames, creating a matched set for nineteenth-century vanity displays.

How are double frames hinged?

Double frames utilise small barrel hinges joining two separate apertures together, allowing the entire unit to fold inward or angle outward on a desk. This hinged construction enabled families to display two related portraits side by side while maintaining a compact footprint.

Are backing boards original?

Original backing boards on period pieces typically consist of thin pine, mahogany or cardboard covered in patterned paper, velvet or leather. Retaining these early components is desirable for collectors as replacement backs are common additions from later restoration work.