Help two-sided Chinese embroidery frame

[Matthew Hale]

Has anyone here ever had to open one of these up? Are they meant to be open-able or are these joints typically glued shut?

 

[Bruce Papier]

I wouldn't force it if it's not separating easily. The face of it looks fairly fragile.

 

[Rick Granick]

Agreed. I would refer them to an antiques restorer.
Rick

 

[alacrity8]

Generally 2 sided framing is not designed to be openable.