How do I date a mirror?

Examine the construction of the wooden frame, the backboards, and the fixings used to secure the glass. Older pieces often display hand-cut joinery and heavy patination on the timber. The glass plate itself offers clues, as older mercury plates exhibit characteristic dark specks and uneven reflections compared to modern silvered glass.

Were these always meant for walls?

Most items designed with integrated hanging loops or brackets served primarily as wall furniture. Pier mirrors and small wall cabinets utilised wall space efficiently in period interiors. Some larger mirrors were originally floor-standing dressing glasses or architectural fixtures adapted later for wall hanging.

How do I clean antique glass?

Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove dust from the glass and frame surface. Avoid spraying liquid cleaner directly onto the glass, as moisture can seep behind the plate and damage the silvering or mercury backing. Apply mild, non-ammonia cleaner sparingly to the cloth rather than the mirror if stubborn marks require removal.

What is an aneroid barometer?

An aneroid barometer measures air pressure to forecast weather changes using an internal expanding metal chamber. Encased in wood frames with glass faces, these instruments became popular domestic items during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. They often include thermometers mounted alongside the main dial for additional meteorological readings.