Description

Works of art in their own right, frames play an essential and often overlooked role in complementing the artworks they support.  The craft and history of European frames is a fascinating subject and this volume provides a rich and informative guide to the frame maker’s art from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century.

This handy reference tool features over two hundred entries—arranged alphabetically from abacus to whiting—that concisely explain the techniques, materials, and styles involved in the making of frames.  The introduction gives an overview of the history of frame styles and explains how frames are chosen by artists and museums for specific artworks.  Lavishly illustrated with objects from the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum, this handbook will be invaluable not only to professionals and collectors but also to all those wishing to increase their understanding and enjoyment of frames.

About the Author

D. Gene Karraker is assistant conservator of frames in the Department of Paintings Conservation at the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Praise For…

 “The book opens up a fresh world of looking at an artwork—not just at the work itself, but at how it is presented.  Highly recommended.”—Choice

 “A compact and richly detailed volume. . . . This handy and informative book is a must-have for art history students and art world professionals, but is also suitable for art collectors and enthusiasts.”—TheMagazineAntiques.com

 “Useful to general readers, students, collectors, and museum professionals.”—Book News

 “An invaluable addition to any reference library.”—Collectables Magazine