Are these mirrors suitable for bathrooms?

Historic frames constructed from wood, gesso, and gold leaf are sensitive to high humidity and direct moisture. Steam in a bathroom can soften gesso, lift gilding, and cause silvering to degrade rapidly behind the glass. Dry hallways, reception rooms, and bedrooms offer the stable environment necessary to preserve the original materials of a vintage wall mirror.

How do I clean old mirror glass?

Old glass and delicate frames should be dusted gently with a dry, soft microfibre cloth. Avoid spraying commercial window cleaners directly onto the glass, as liquid can seep behind the plate and damage the original backing or silvering. If cleaning is necessary, apply a small amount of mild soapy water to the cloth rather than the mirror itself, keeping moisture well away from the frame joints.

What is the difference between gesso and carved wood?

Carved wood frames are shaped directly out of timber using chisels and gouges, showing the natural grain and fibre of the material upon close inspection. Gesso frames are built up using a plaster mixture applied over a simpler wooden carcass and moulded into intricate relief. Gesso allows for sharper, more ornate repeating decorations than wood carving alone, though it is more prone to chipping if subjected to impact.