What is a cheval mirror?

A cheval mirror is a floor-standing swing mirror that allows full-length reflection in a bedroom or dressing space. The glass pivots within a vertical frame. These pieces range from slim Regency designs to large Victorian mahogany examples supported on sabots and castors.

How do tilt mirrors work?

Tilt mirrors operate on side pivots secured to upright posts, allowing the user to angle the glass forward or backward. Friction hardware or thumbscrews keep the heavy glass plate fixed at the chosen angle during use.

Where should I place a dressing mirror?

Floor-standing cheval versions suit bedrooms and dressing rooms where full-length views are needed. Table-top toilet mirrors sit securely on top of chests of drawers. Positioning them near natural light sources helps maximise their reflective utility in the room.

Mahogany is the primary timber found in these listings, alongside flame mahogany variations, oak, pitch pine and walnut. Brass hardware often accompanies the wooden frames. Different periods favoured different grains, from Regency mahogany to later Arts and Crafts oak.