The picture frame, an integral yet often overlooked component of art display, has undergone a fascinating evolution since its emergence as an independent structure in the sixteenth century. This journey reflects broader artistic trends and technological advancements, making the history of the frame a parallel narrative to the art it surrounds.
Early Frames: Carved and Conjoined
Initially, frames were not standalone structures but integral parts of the painted panels they enclosed. These early wooden frames were often carved, gilded, or painted, and they were set into the panelling of rooms, creating a seamless integration with the architecture. By the sixteenth century, frames began to gain autonomy, allowing greater flexibility in their design and use.
The Golden Eras of Frame-Making
Two major periods of innovation and artistry in frame-making stand out:
1. The Late Seventeenth Century: This era saw the naturalistic carvings of artisans like Grinling Gibbons and his contemporaries. These frames, characterized by intricate floral and organic motifs, complemented the Baroque artworks they enclosed.
2. The Rococo Phase (Mid-Eighteenth Century): Frames during this period became highly elaborate, often rivalling the artworks themselves in their decorative complexity. The exuberant curves, asymmetry, and ornate details of Rococo frames were expressions of the prevailing artistic style.
The Nineteenth Century: Heavier Designs and New Techniques
As the eighteenth century waned, gilded frames for both paintings and mirrors became increasingly heavier. This trend coincided with the development of composition ornament—moulded decorative elements applied to frames, which allowed for intricate designs without the labor-intensive process of carving.
Embed from Getty ImagesTwentieth Century: Minimalism and New Materials
The modern era ushered in a radical transformation of the traditional frame. The advent of new materials, such as metals and moulded plastics, and a shift toward minimalism reflected the changing aesthetics of twentieth-century art. Frames were no longer meant to compete with the artworks but to provide a subtle, unobtrusive boundary. Narrow, undecorated frames became the norm, harmonizing with the clean lines and abstract forms of modern art.
Conclusion
The evolution of the picture frame mirrors the history of art itself, transitioning from a role as an ornate embellishment to one of understated utility. Today, frames continue to adapt, not only preserving the art they surround but also responding to the ever-changing tastes of artists and audiences alike.
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