How do I measure for a frame?

Measure the exact height and width of your artwork to find the correct internal dimensions needed for the housing. Ensure you account for the rebate depth so the piece sits flush against the inner edge. Compare your measurements against the listed rebate size of the frame to guarantee a secure fit. Allow a fraction of a millimetre for expansion if the artwork is on paper or canvas.

Can I hang oil paintings without glass?

Oil paintings on canvas or panel traditionally hang exposed to the air without a glass covering. The varnished surface of the paint acts as a protective barrier against dust and environmental moisture. Works on paper, pastels, and watercolours require glass to prevent permanent degradation from humidity and handling. Ensure a small gap remains between the glass and the artwork surface to avoid condensation damage.

How do I date a gilt frame?

Examine the timber construction methods, tool marks, and the composition of the gesso layer beneath the gold leaf. Earlier periods utilise hand-carved wooden foundations, while later examples often incorporate moulded composition ornament. Stylistic cues such as corner decorations and profile shapes correspond directly to periods like the Regency or Victorian eras. Look for signs of age in the wood grain and the patina of the underlying bole layer.