A Bird’s Eye View on Buying an Antique Picture Frame

If you want to buy an antique picture frame, but wonder if others might think you’re a little odd for going to the bother and expense of finding one think - to each his own! Besides not only is an antique picture frame utilitarian they are considered a work of art too. After all if the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City deems them as worthy of display and study for their walls, you should have no problem with buying or collecting them either. So sit back and take a few minutes to gather some insight about the history, types of frames, cost and where to buy some beautiful frames for your walls, or even your coffee table.
Framing History

The first step in purchasing your antique picture frame is to learn the basics just like in school; however this is much more fun because there are no useless boring definitions or history facts to cram for. These are lessons that you are dying to know! Buying an antique picture frame that is at least 100 years old lets you satisfy the antique qualification, but be sure to look at condition too. Purchasing a frame that is excessively damaged will detract from its monetary value, beauty and the picture you put into it. Besides if you’re looking to collect the frame for re – sell your criteria for its condition must be stringent. If you’ve ever wondered how picture frames came about then you’re in for a real surprise, no one really knows. The experts guess that man when he was living in caves; carved or drew a line to separate their pictures, and then by the early Renaissance religious paintings started to have a semi type of frame made from a plaster like material. In the US by the mid 1800s production of wood picture frames by independent shop owners were already being made. Later mass production of picture frames came out in different types of materials in the Henry Ford era of the 1920s production lines.

Places to Buy Your Frame

Now that you have a definition and some history on frames you’ll need to know where you can buy your special antique picture frame that you want, types and the market cost. There are a few reliable sources for buying an antique picture frame, but remember if you want to purchase an antique frame from an online dealer, or from a local antique shop owner you’ll need to be informed. Of course there is a mark up, and some dealers in antiques might not be fully informed about price, and don’t have the necessary knowledge to guide you in the right direction. Some can be out right scam artists too. Also, purchases from individuals will need your close evaluation. Take a peek at reliable ways to purchase frames.

-Local auctions
-Major auction houses online, such as Sothebys

It might not seem like there is a world of choices to buy an antique picture frame from, but in reality there is, it’s just going to take a concentrated involvement from you. First visit your local library or bookstore and read all you can on buying and collecting the antique picture frame. Some excellent resource books for buying frames range from the extremely old to modern updated editions. Two books are a must read. Claus Grimm’s retranslated book The Book of Picture Frames (1981) focus on European frames and Eli Wilner’s Antique American Frames: Identification and Price Guide (1995) are resources that you’ll need to read, and bring along with you on your hunt for your frame.

Styles and Material

Now that you know some sources you’ll need to decide on what type of material and style you want for your antique picture frame. Use the guide book to help you pick from a variety of choices such as bronze or even silk frames. Small cameo and easel miniature frames are a good style for end tables and dressers. Choices of styles and materials are broken up into periods of design such as the Federal Period (1790 – 1830) will usually be large and gilded gold leaf, and was influenced by Rome. Late Victorian Period (1870 – 1890) frames were marbleized with green, brown, and grey and were covered with silver leaf. Modern frames from 1900 are attractive; it depends on what you like.

Prices and Sources

Cost for an antique picture frame will vary greatly depending on several factors, such as rarity, condition, market and geographic influences. A wonderful source to find out about frame prices is to write Eli Wilner and Company located in New York City. They are able to help you with any questions you might have, and can guide you to resources that you might not be aware of. However there are many reputable companies that you can write for information and price guides. Finally, remember to take a little time learning about frame buying and collecting, and you’ll soon be enjoying your new antique picture frame!

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