TO FRAME OR NOT TO FRAME

Keep it simple when framing period art so the frame doesn't take away from the art itself

- JAMIE ALLPRESS

Many years ago, I was pondering ways of improving my antiques and restoration business. After antiques retail, antique restorations, decorating and advising, art was the next move. I had always dealt in art, however finally focusing on this changed everything.

I had become tired of over-framing my period art. For as long as I can remember, galleries would mount rare engravings, for example a Besler, not just once, but up to four times, then place a huge and expensive hand-gilded frame around it all. This didn’t just look OTT, it also cost a small fortune; framing could cost up to $1000. This day I remember clearly, as I had just purchased a pair of first-edition Basil Beslers 1613. They had three gold, patterned pink and gold again mounts, and the most hideous hand-gilded frames.