Antique French Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Photo Frame with Laurel Wreath and Ribbon Crest, Rope-Twist Border and Green Damask Mount, c. 1880–1900

Antique French Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze Photo Frame with Green Damask Mount

A tall, elegant frame with lovely old color. The narrow gilt bronze surround is cast as a rope twist bordered by a band of laurel leaves, with a pierced laurel wreath and ribbon bow crest at the top and two small turned finials at the base. The gilding has softened to a warm, slightly darkened tone that gives the frame a quiet, lived-with look.

The opening holds a mount of green silk damask woven with fern and floral sprays, which sets off a photograph or miniature beautifully, or can be enjoyed on its own as a textile panel. The back is a plain brass plate with a folding strut for standing on a desk or dressing table.

Frames of this type were a specialty of Paris around 1900, made in the Louis XVI taste that returned to fashion at the end of the century and sold as wedding and christening presents.

Details

Origin: France
Period: c. 1880–1900
Style: Louis XVI
Material: Gilt bronze, silk damask mount, brass back with strut

Approximate Measurements

Frame: height 10.5" x width 6"
Opening: height 7" x width 5"

Condition

Good antique condition with wear consistent with age. Hanging Only. No Back easel. Slight bend at the top that does not impact frame.

A graceful frame with the patina only time can give.