Paintings

Introduction

Early frames were simple affairs. They were usually made from single pieces of wood which were generally either gilded or left plain. They were originally used to protect the fragile edges of panel altarpieces. Then, as paintings became more secular, frames became more decorative and were designed to complement the architecture surrounding them.

So we can see that the frame on a painting serves two purposes:

• it has an aesthetic function—it enhances elements of the painting and unifies the painting with its environment; and

• it also serves as a protective device, providing a physical barrier between the environment and the artwork.

Additional protective components can be added to the frame to:

• protect the back and front of the artwork from knocks and abrasions;

• minimise the effects of vibration and movement;

• enable the work to be hung securely;

• facilitate handling; and

• protect the work from dust and pollution.

Many paintings, however, do not have frames, or they have flimsy and inadequate original frames. Such works are more difficult to protect; but if you keep the basic principles in mind, you can provide protection for all paintings.

It is important to note that not all frames are protective. While a good-quality, well-constructed frame will provide protection for a painting, a poorly made frame, or one which is not properly fitted to the work, can cause damage.

This section discusses good protective framing practice; it looks at the types of framing systems which are relevant for each type of painting structure and gives general information to help you prolong the lives of the paintings in your care.