Where should I hang a pier mirror?

Historically, these tall mirrors hung on the narrow wall space between two windows to bounce natural light deep into a dark room. Today, they work remarkably well in hallways, above fireplaces, or in living rooms to create an illusion of height and expanded space. Because of their vertical proportions, ensure the wall structure can support the weight of the timber frame and glass plate securely using appropriate fixings.

How do I clean a giltwood frame?

Dust the carved surfaces gently with a very soft, dry brush or feather duster to remove loose particles without disturbing the delicate gold leaf. Avoid using any water, chemical sprays, or abrasive cloths, as moisture can lift the gesso and ruin the historic gilding. For the glass plate, apply a mild glass cleaner to a cloth rather than spraying directly onto the glass, preventing any liquid from seeping behind the frame edges.

How can I tell the period of a mirror?

Examine the construction methods visible on the reverse, including the type of wood, hand-cut nails, and the style of the timber joinery. The framing style, carving depth, and the formulation of the gesso also offer strong clues to whether a piece originates from the Georgian, Regency, or Victorian eras. Look closely at the mirror plate itself for subtle distortions, tiny bubbles, or foxing, which often indicate older glass manufacture.