Antique French Gilt Bronze Photo Frame with Pierced Gallery Cresting, Louis XVI Style, c. 1860–1890

Antique French Gilt Bronze Photo Frame with Pierced Gallery Cresting, Louis XVI Style, c. 1860–1890

A tall, architectural French frame in gilt bronze, finely cast and chased in the Louis XVI taste. The top carries a pierced gallery of interlaced ribbons and flowerheads between two urn corner finials, almost like a tiny balustrade, and the border below is worked with a continuous band of stylised leaves inside beaded edges. The frame stands on two small toupie feet and has a folding brass easel strut at the back.

This is the sort of frame the Paris bronziers made for a serious portrait: tall, formal and beautifully detailed when the light catches the pierced cresting. It takes a large photograph or print, and would be equally striking left empty with a mirror or a piece of antique silk behind the glass.

Of particular interest is the French patent inscription on the reverse, Breveté S.G.D.G., a historical designation associated with patented French designs, offering a fascinating connection to the craftsmanship of the period.

A truly beautiful example of French decorative craftsmanship, destined to become a treasured part of a thoughtfully collected home.

Details

Origin: France
Period: Napoleon III / late 19th century
Date: Circa 1860–1890
Material: Gilt bronze, glass, brass easel strut
Form: Easel-back portrait frame with pierced gallery cresting. 
Approximate Measurements
Height: 10.5” 
Width: 7” 
Sight size (opening): 7.5” x 5.5” 

Condition

Very good antique condition with minimal wear to the gilding. Pierced gallery complete with no losses noted. Glass original. Easel strut works as intended. Slight crimping to back slide, does not impact.

A handsome, substantial French frame with real presence on a console or mantel.