Framing artwork is something that goes back thousands of years. Some of the earliest frames were found in Egyptian tombs on portraits of the mummies buried there. Initially, they were used more for religious-themed pieces but as time passed, it became trendy with the nobility and the rich to frame artwork for their homes.

Early examples were all custom made and had carved figures and symbols on them. Most frames are architectural in design and were meant to blend with the windows and doors in the building in which they hung. There are styles that have a carved peak at the top similar to altar pieces found in a church or synagogue. Frames were not considered as important as the art and when a painting changed hands and it was customary to throw out the old frame and replace it with something which would be more suitable for its new home. This accounts for the rarity of very old frames.

In the Arts and Crafts period of the late 1890’s through the early 1900’s,the emphasis was on simple designs that often referenced medieval, romantic and natural forms. This “movement” stood for choosing traditional handmade design and craftsmanship over cheap, mass-produced products.

Some of what are considered the finest frames made at the time were produced in our area. Herman Dudley Murphy was a painter who became a prominent frame maker in Boston. The company evolved into Carrig-Rohane and became a part of Vose Galleries in Boston. Childe Hassam, whose famous paintings include scenes from Newport, designed his own frames and had them made by Carrig-Rohane.
Also from Boston were the Foster Brothers were known for their frames decorated in checkerboard patterns and expanded decorated corners (called “crossetted” corners). Then there was Charles Prendergast, who found inspiration for his frames in Chinese art at the Museum of Fine Arts.

Needless to say, some antique frames may be worth more than the art they contain. High quality, good condition antique frames from a top maker can sell for $1,500 and up. If you long for one and can’t find one you are not out of luck. We have two sources right here in Rhode Island. P.S. Art Frames and Moyka Art & Frame are both in Central Falls. They make custom carved gilded frames and can duplicate almost any frame you desire as well as offer restoration services. After all, it is not just a frame, it is a window to the soul.

Karen Waterman is a fine art, antique furniture and decorative arts appraiser in the East Bay area and will answer as many questions regarding your “hidden treasures” as possible. By sending a letter or email with a question you give full permission for use in the column. Names, addresses or e-mail will not be published and photos will be returned if requested. Send e-mails (digital photos preferred) to watermanappraisal@gmail.com. Send snail mail to Waterman Appraisal and Consulting Services, PO Box 134, Barrington, RI 02806.