What is a cheval mirror?

A cheval mirror is a floor-standing dressing glass hung on vertical pivots within a sturdy frame. This pivoting mechanism allows the user to tilt the glass to various angles for full-length viewing. First developed in the eighteenth century, the design remained popular through the Victorian and Edwardian eras as bedrooms grew larger and full-length attire required checking.

How do I tell Victorian from Edwardian mirrors?

Victorian mirrors tend to feature heavier timbers like dark mahogany, deep mouldings, and robust structural turnings such as barley twists. They often display richer, darker patination accumulated over decades of domestic use. Edwardian pieces generally present lighter woods, including inlaid mahogany and oak, alongside simpler lines influenced by Arts and Crafts or revival styles. The overall aesthetic shifts from heavy formal presence to lighter room integration.

Where should I place a dressing mirror?

Floor-standing cheval mirrors suit bedrooms, dressing rooms, and large hallways where they bounce natural light around the space. Positioning them near windows maximises illumination for checking outfits. Tabletop swing mirrors and easel glasses belong on dressing tables, chests of drawers, or washstands. Ensure the surface is stable and level to support the pivoted weight.

Are these mirrors adjustable?

Most standing and tabletop dressing mirrors utilise side screws, pins, or pivots that let the glass tilt forward and backward. This adjustability accommodates users of different heights. When adjusting older hardware, support the glass frame with one hand while loosening the side fixtures to prevent sudden slipping or strain on the pivots.