Any ideas about this huge mirror ? Please : )

Hi
I am a newbie to this site !
I have always loved to collect bits & bods since I was a child ...
So randomly I was offered this mirror and said YES !
It's huge ! Any ideas on age etc
AND what to do about its damage ?
I am happy to have it on my wall without repair BUT although a solid piece imthe gold plaster work is cracking and want to stop further bits falling off ????

 

Well - looks like a reinforced plaster cast frame that was painted/coated in a golden color. Maybe 30/40s? I would trash the frame, as it will only keep falling apart due to age and poor quality. Pull the mirror and put it in a wood frame made from Walnut or Mahogany. Or you can just have the broken parts of the original frame repaired and have another Gold wash applied to it. It may get pricey so all options are up to you!!

 

Not my area, but if plaster, you might try a little glue that dries clear and is paint-able. Repaint, then clear coat with a matte finish. I don't know if this is the best solution though.

Our furniture expert is on holiday. If you do not get any other info, wait a week and bump this to the top of the forum. You do that by posting a new post to this thread.

 

Patricia, I have had 2 Victorian mantel mirrors with the same problems. The person from whom I purchased one of them, many long years ago, suggested something along the lines of what's shown on this website:

https://feltmagnet.com/crafts/How-to-Repair-Antique-Gesso-Picture-Frames

There are lots of other websites with similar advice, and YouTube videos on how to do it, as well.

 

Thankyou very helpful

 

WOW! Did I bookmark that quickly!!!! I have some large plaster/gesso frames in need of repair.......now all I need to do is find the time.................SOMEDAY!!!!! Thanks @SBSVC

 

As indicated, this is a gesso coated frame. They are prone to chipping and losses due to moisture infiltration. Repair is tedious but not all that hard. Do glue any loose pieces back on.

I can't tell if this is Victorian era or later from the one picture. Nor can I tell if the finish is original or if it has been repainted. It is undoubtedly part of something else based on the flat bottom.