Buying Art - Framing Basics
The right frame can greatly enhance the look of your artwork, while the wrong frame can detract from its overall appearance. I often say: a frame can make or break a work. Having said that, please keep in mind that framing is a matter of personal taste. One person may like a more ornate frame while another might prefer a much simpler frame – there is no real right or wrong.
For the most part, galleries that deal in historical works of art will often frame their works in the original frame, a period frame or a reproduction frame done in the style of a period frame. Now I am sure you want to know, what’s the difference?
The original frame – those selected by the artist, or his dealer/agent, for the painting when it was first created -- in some instances the artist may have actually created the frame. Again, these frame style can range from very simple to extremely ornate. When possible, it is nice to keep the original frame with the painting. What if you do not like the original frame? I always recommend storing it in a safe place and when you decide to sell the work, put it back in its original frame – they can add a lot of value to the work.
Period frames - produced during the era when the work was first created and may be similar to the one, or even the exact frame style that, the artist used to frame his/her work. While this is an excellent option, you need to keep in mind that looking for a period frame is time consuming and when you find the right one it may need to be restored, enlarged or even cut down ... this will add to its cost. Of course, you may get lucky and find an exact fit that is in perfect condition!
Reproduction frames – frames that are made today to look like the old frames and most importantly, they will be an exact fit. There are many options in terms of mediums – carved wood, composition/wood combinations, resin, etc. In addition, they offer you the ability to choose the finish – from painted, to metal leaf, to gold leafing and a host of others.
Today, many framers have software that will allow customers to upload images of their works and then place different frames on them so you can see the finished look before you buy. This take a lot of the guesswork and risk out of the 'picture'.
Now I am sure you are wondering: what will this cost? Frame costs run the gamut … from $20 or $30 for the simplest to over $100,000 for original period frames. Again, if you are buying from a gallery that deals in historical works of art, the painting should come framed – so there is no additional cost (as long as you like the frame style). At the higher end of the contemporary art world, many artists choose to have their works left unframed -- if this is the case, then there is no additional cost (unless you want it framed). If you are purchasing a work of art from a gallery that specializes in decorative works of art, then the frame will probably be an ‘extra’. These galleries often have frame samples on hand and will help you choose the one that is right for you.
If it turns out that you need to purchase or restore a frame, finding the right framer is similar to finding the right art dealer or conservator … do some research and learn about the different types/styles that are available and then determine which framers offer the widest selection and/or have the best restoration facilities. Should you decide to buy a ‘period’ frame, you will need to concern yourself with condition, quality, style and size – they all factor into the final price. If you choose the reproduction route then you will need to find those framers, or frame shops, that offer the widest choices of styles, finishes and quality. Keep in mind that in the reproduction world, the finely carved wood frames, finished in real gold leaf, will probably be the most expensive … while less detailed carved frames with metal or painted finished will be more affordable; but remember, like most things in life, you get what you pay for.
In the end, as with any work of art you purchase, buy what you like. You are going to live with it and really, who cares what the neighbors think!
Fine Artist
8 年Howard, thank you for an informative article. It is true that a great painting should be able to stand alone. Nonetheless, a tailored made frame for a great painting delivers an even better end result. Too many people in the framing business do not know what to show or how to choose properly a moulding for the client to get the best result for their painting. Too often, they leave the decision up to the client's taste, or what the client can afford. The end result is usually a bad choice of moulding for the painting, which completely fails, in the end, to achieve what is ultimately in the best interest of the painting and client, i.e. to say to get the best out of the painting. I have learnt the hard way that, there is no substitution for quality. Choose metal leaf over painted finishes and wood moulding over plastic mouldings. It is so true in what you say: "but remember, like most things in life, you get what you pay for". Then only to regret it. I can't agree with your last statement. "You are going to live with it and really, who cares what the neighbours think"! I do care what critics may think as I would like them to think I made the right decision in framing a good work of art, even to the point in defending my choice of moulding, even if, it broke my budget to get the correct, and best result for the painting.
arttasmania.com
8 年Art works look best without any frames at all. A fine work needs no enhancing.