Vintage view: Spotting a mirror to die for

MIRRORS of every era and variety from whiplash belted Art Nouveau overmantles to small silver vanity sets for the dressing table are a staple of any country house sale or mixed auction.

Early mirrors are very thin and you can judge an old looking glass by holding a pencil or key to the glass. If the reflection is just about touching the object, the plate is thin and the mirror probably antique. Here are just some things to do with that faded reflected glory.

* When you find foxing, or damage to the silver leaves that make up a mirror’s surface, think twice before replacing the glass. Not only is the original glass integral to the piece, but it gives a ghostly atmospheric reflection. Repair the frame but leave it otherwise ‘as found’, treating the glass with extreme care.