Frames Throughout History

[ACFramer]

A somewhat recent thread posted by PaulSF concerning Plein Air got me to thinking about picture frames throughout history, which periods in visual art and political power influenced their designs, and the processes of preparing these frames.

http://www.thegrumble.com/showthread.php?t=25509&highlight=plein+aire

In the modern age of cast mold reproductions in readymade standard sizes, I was wondering if any of the folk on The Grumble might know of any literature produced by artisans still carving, washing, and leafing their own frames.

I myself have longed to find apprenticeship under these types of "Master" picture framers. (Alas, I would probably start out quite poorly, since I am only a good 5 years into the trade). It has, however, fascinated me since the very beginning of my framing adventures.

As a side note, I thought it might be fun to hear which type of frame throughout history (i.e. Louis XIV, Chippendale, Whistler, etc.) each of you appreciate the most. I realize that all of them have their place, but if you were to be stranded on a desert island with only one type of frame, which would it be and why?

Happy Grumbling....

 

[Paul Hardy]

Secret Lives of Frames: One Hundred Years of Art and Artistry by Deborah Davis.

This well illustrated book about Lowy Frames has a small section on techniques as well an overview of the history of frames.

http://www.amazon.com/Secret-Lives-Frames-Hundred-Artistry/dp/1933231165

Paul Hardy

 

[Baer Charlton]

John Montagu in mid 1700s, designed a wonderful frame that was a light floral but was basically a simple clean lined laid open scotia with a sanded panel and peas & sausage sight. A delight on simple portraits, needlework, or light open landscapes that don't call for a more formal Louis XV or fussy Chippendale. It is usually in 23kt and fully burnished except the panel and sight detail.

Montagu was born in 1718 as the 4th Earl of Sandwich. . . and is most known for sticking a bit of meat between two pieces of roll so he could continue playing chess.

 

[PaulSF]

Oh gawd, Baer, now you've got me thinking about the Saturday Night Live skit. Didn't Montagu run into the Marquis of D**chebag at a party one night?

 

[Baer Charlton]

SNL? Is that on TV after the Jim Leara News hour? It must be up against Lawrance Welk on Nickalodian, so we wouldn't have seen it.

 

[Pat Murphey]

AC,

You are not far from APF-Munn's Factory. You should visit.

 

[Paul N]

Paul Hardy is right, Secret Lives of Frames, is one great book.

And, if someone asks why CC frames are expensive, just let them flip through the book; it shows the countless steps and the amount of work needed to make one.