The frames, decorative instrument, change over the centuries. To understand and recognize its style, it is interesting to browse its history.

Originally, simple built of wood, the frame becomes a work of art in itself that combines delicacy with the work of the sculpture and gilding.

In the seventeenth century, the decorative work of the frame is the apotheosis of its art. Masters sculptors allow themselves to ingenuity and opulence. The decorations are embellished with many games of funds. It is a knowledge which gilders engrave coatings (covering wood) with irons says "to repair." Under the reign of Louis XIV, the decoration fashion games are called crazy, barley grain, and honeycomb or cat claws.
Frames of the seventeenth century are rare and therefore much sought after by collectors or antique dealers.

During the eighteenth century, trade of frames is at its peak. Refinement decorative gilding and nuances bring a new dimension in the object.
The richness of the Rocaille, floral ornaments and asymmetry of natural beauty are the watchwords of frames made under Louis XV. It is then that becomes a veritable art.

At its opposite, Louis XVI frame are characterized by its simplicity, its elegance, its straight lines and symmetrical. Their decorative vocabulary is directly inspired by the art of antiquity. However, they still worked the same way, wood carving as in gilding.

In the nineteenth century the industrialization of the frame democratized it. New techniques have been developed to facilitate its manufacture. The frame is rarely carved; it is most often made on a wooden frame, complete with sets of so-called "English pastry". This paste, once stamped in a mold can be used on a multitude of decorative ornaments. These strips were then cut at the requested dimensions.

This leads to major changes from 1830, their prices are attractive ... frames are found in every home ... they are no longer considered as a luxury item.

Margaux GATIMEL

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